Clench Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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clench
[klɛn(t)ʃ ]
Definitions
physical action
To close one's hands into fists tightly, typically as a sign of anger, determination, or pain.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
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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.
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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.
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clutch |
Clutch is often used when someone is holding something tightly, usually out of fear, anxiety, or the need to keep it safe.
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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.
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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.
physical action
A tight grasp or grip, especially with the hands or teeth.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
---|---|
clench |
Usually involves tightly closing part of the body like a hand or teeth, often due to stress, anger, or determination.
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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.
- ...
- 27488 heartburn
- 27489 infesting
- 27490 unendurable
- 27491 clench
- 27492 reversibly
- 27493 misrule
- 27494 trapezoid
- ...