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Clutching Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐Ÿคฒ
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clutching

[หˆklสŒtสƒษชล‹ ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

holding tightly

Clutching refers to the action of grasping or holding something tightly or securely, often due to fear, anxiety, or the need for control. It implies a strong grip that may be physical or metaphorical, as in clutching one's emotions or hope. Clutching can also signify urgency or a desperate attempt to retain something valuable. This word is commonly used to describe both physical actions and emotional states.

Synonyms

clasping, grasping, gripping, holding, seizing.

Examples of usage

  • She was clutching her purse as she walked down the dark alley.
  • He was clutching the edge of the table during the scary movie.
  • The child was clutching his motherโ€™s hand in the crowded area.
  • She felt herself clutching at straws as the deadline approached.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Psychology

  • Clutching can be a physical response to anxiety or fear, providing a sense of security.
  • People often clutch items subconsciously when feeling stressed or nervous, indicating a need for comfort.
  • The act of clutching helps in grounding a person, focusing their attention on the object rather than overwhelming emotions.

Literature

  • In many stories, characters clutch personal items during pivotal moments, reflecting their emotional states.
  • Clutching can symbolize desperation or urgency in literature, often used by authors to display character struggles.
  • Famous literary protagonists often clutch tokens of memory, indicating their connection to the past.

Pop Culture

  • Clutching a weapon or a symbolic object is common in action films, indicating preparedness or emotional turmoil.
  • Popular songs often use the idea of clutching in lyrics to express longing or heartbreak.
  • Memes frequently depict characters glaring while clutching an item, highlighting their intense feelings in a humorous way.

Art

  • In visual art, figures are often depicted clutching objects, representing their emotional state or relationships.
  • The act of clutching can be emphasized in sculptures to convey a sense of tension or intimacy.
  • Art movements like Expressionism use clutching as a motif to depict inner turmoil and connection.

Origin of 'clutching'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'clutch' comes from the Old English word 'clycian', which means 'to grasp or seize'.
  • It has roots in Middle English, where 'clochen' meant to hold firmly.
  • Originally associated with grasping in a physical sense, the meaning has expanded to include emotional contexts.

The term 'clutch' originates from the Middle English word 'clutche,' which means 'to seize or grasp.' This word can be traced back to Old English 'clyccian,' which similarly refers to grasping. The evolution of the term has included a variety of meanings throughout history, encompassing both the physical act of holding and metaphorical implications of dependence or urgency. In modern usage, 'clutching' conveys not only the physical action but also emotional layers, such as anxiety or desperation. The term has gained traction in various contexts, from everyday conversations to more dramatic narratives in literature and media, symbolizing moments of intensity, both in action and emotion. The development and usage of 'clutch' reflect changes in language and culture, where physical actions often correlate with deeper emotional states.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #14,363, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.