clutch
/klʌt͡ʃ/ · clutch
noun
- The claw of a predatory animal or bird. The cat's sharp clutch grasped the mouse.
- A grip, especially one seen as rapacious or evil. The politician's clutch on power was criticized by the opposition.
- A device to interrupt power transmission, commonly used to separate the engine and gearbox in a car. The driver engaged the clutch to shift gears smoothly.
verb
- To seize, as though with claws. The dog clutched its prey in its jaws.
- To grip or grasp tightly. She clutched her purse tightly and walked nervously into the building.
Did you know? The term 'clutch' in sports, particularly in baseball and tennis, refers to a critical situation where a player must perform well to win the game, often requiring a 'clutch' performance.