clinch Hear it!

clinch definition

clinch (klinc̸h)

transitive verb

  1. to secure (a nail, bolt, etc. that has been driven through something) by bending or flattening the projecting end
  2. to fasten firmly together by this means
    1. to settle (an argument, bargain, etc.) definitely
    2. to make sure of winning; win conclusively

Etymology: var. of clench

intransitive verb

  1. Boxing to grip the opponent's body with one or both arms so as to hinder punching effectiveness
  2. Slang to embrace

noun

    1. a fastening, as with a clinched nail
    2. the bent or flattened part of a clinched nail, bolt, etc.
  1. Boxing an act of clinching
  2. Slang an embrace

Webster's New World College Dictionary Copyright © 2009 by Wiley Publishing, Inc., Cleveland, Ohio.
Used by arrangement with John Wiley & Sons, Inc.

Comments
Improve this definition.
Do you have more to add? Share your linguistic knowledge or observation.
/Register to save your comments.