clenched

VERB

grasp

Synonyms

STRONGEST

clamp clasp clutch

STRONG

clinch constrict contract grapple grip hold

WEAK

double up draw together

Antonyms

STRONGEST

let go unfasten

STRONG

expand release

WEAK

loose loosen

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

To strengthen privacy protections, the researchers limited their images to the back of the hand and a clenched fist.

From Science Daily • Mar. 4, 2026

Winners and aces bring a huge roar to the heavens, clenched fist raised high.

From BBC • Nov. 9, 2025

At the helm of a massive shiny black truck bearing the Teamsters insignia, a driver clenched a cigar between his teeth as he steered with one hand and pulled an overhead horn with the other.

From Los Angeles Times • Sep. 1, 2025

When she weakly advises him to tuck in the shirt a little more, he snarls through a clenched jaw, “It’s tucked into my socks!”

From Salon • Jul. 23, 2025

“It won’t move,” he said through clenched teeth.

From Anya and the Nightingale by Sofiya Pasternack

Vocabulary lists containing clenched

NAEP Test Words

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