| Main Entry: | |
| Part of Speech: | verb |
| Definition: | grasp |
| Synonyms: | clamp, clasp, clinch, clutch, constrict, contract, double up, draw together, grapple, grip, hold |
| Notes: | clench means to hold in a tight grasp while clinch means to settle conclusively - for example, hold a boxing opponent with one or both arms so as to prevent punches |
| Antonyms: | let go, loose, loosen, release |