to close (the hands, teeth, etc.) tightly.

to grasp firmly; grip.

clinch ( def. 1 ) .

clinch ( defs. 2?4 ) .

to close or knot up tightly

His hands clenched as he faced his enemy.

the act of clenching.

a tight hold; grip.

something that clenches or holds fast.

clinch ( defs. 9, 11, 12 ) .

verb

let go , loose , loosen , release

verb

clamp , clasp , clinch , clutch , constrict , contract , double up , draw together , grapple , grip , holdnotes: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 , grab , seize , clint , close , grasp , grit , hold , tighten

noun

clasp , clutch , grasp , grip