clench
Third Person
clenches
Present Participle
clenching
Past Tense
clenched
Past Participle
clenched
1
to grip or hold tightly
transitive
- The weightlifter clenched the barbell tightly, preparing for a challenging lift.
- The child clenched their mother's hand tightly while crossing the busy street.
- He clenched the handle of the shovel tightly, determined to dig through the tough soil.
- Anticipating a challenging climb, the mountaineer clenches the rope tightly in preparation.
- The conductor clenched the baton tightly, ready to lead the orchestra with precision.
2
to squeeze or press tightly
transitive
- In a moment of anger, he clenched the document tightly in his hands.
- Overwhelmed with emotion, she clenches her friend's hand for support.
- Trying to contain her excitement, she clenched the edges of her seat during the thrilling movie.
- He clenched his fists in anger, ready to confront the person who had insulted him.