Clench Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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clench

[klɛn(t)ʃ ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

physical action

To close one's hands into fists tightly, typically as a sign of anger, determination, or pain.

Synonyms

clutch, grip, squeeze.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
clench

Clench is typically used when describing a situation where someone is holding something tightly, usually with their hands or teeth, often due to strong emotions like anger, determination, or tension.

  • She clenched her fists in anger.
  • He clenched his teeth and refused to speak.
grip

Grip refers to holding something firmly with your hands or other part of your body, and it can describe both physical actions and figurative situations where control is involved.

  • He gripped the steering wheel tightly as he drove through the storm.
  • She managed to get a grip on the situation.
clutch

Clutch is often used when someone is holding something tightly, usually out of fear, anxiety, or the need to keep it safe.

  • She clutched her purse tightly as she walked through the dark alley.
  • He clutched the edge of the table to steady himself.
squeeze

Squeeze is used to describe pressing something from opposite sides, often to extract something, flatten it, or show affection. It can also imply applying more pressure than necessary.

  • She squeezed the tube of toothpaste to get the last drop out.
  • He gave her hand a gentle squeeze.

Examples of usage

  • He clenched his fists in frustration.
  • She clenched her teeth to stop herself from screaming.
  • The pain was so intense that he clenched his jaw.
Context #2 | Noun

physical action

A tight grasp or grip, especially with the hands or teeth.

Synonyms

clutch, grasp, grip.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
clench

Usually involves tightly closing part of the body like a hand or teeth, often due to stress, anger, or determination.

  • She clenched her fists in anger.
  • He clenched his teeth and kept quiet.

Examples of usage

  • She released her clench on the rope.
  • His teeth were in a clench as he struggled with the pain.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Origin of 'clench'

The word 'clench' originated from Middle English 'clenchen', which is derived from Old English 'clencan'. The Old English word meant 'to make fast, to seize', and it is related to the Old Norse word 'klengja', meaning 'to tangle'. Over time, 'clench' evolved to its current usage in English to refer to the action of closing one's fists tightly or gripping something firmly.


Word Frequency Rank

At rank #27,491, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.