Definition & Meaning of "clutch"

to clutch

VERB

to seize or grab suddenly and firmly

Transitive: to clutch sth

Example

He clutched the steering wheel tightly as he navigated through the winding mountain road.

Startled by the sudden noise, he clutched his chest in surprise.

Trying to prevent the papers from scattering, she clutched them tightly in her hands.

to try to secure or retain a hold on an object

Transitive: to clutch at sth

Example

The hiker clutched at the rope, trying to steady himself as he descended the steep slope.

She clutched at the railing as the ship rocked back and forth on the turbulent waves.

The child clutched at the string of balloons, reluctant to let them drift away into the sky.

to seize or grasp something intangible, such as an opportunity, a concept, or a moment

Transitive: to clutch an opportunity or concept

Example

The ambitious student clutched the scholarship opportunity tightly.

The politician clutched the chance to address the crowd, seeing it as an opportunity to sway public opinion.

The artist clutched the inspiration for her next masterpiece, eager to translate her vision onto the canvas.

Clutch

NOUN

the handle or pedal that one uses to change gears in a car, truck, etc.

Example

She pressed the clutch to shift into first gear.

The clutch made a strange noise when he depressed it.

He learned to use the clutch carefully when driving a manual car.

a small hand-held bag without handles or straps, usually carried as a fashion accessory to complement an outfit

What is a "clutch"?

A clutch is a small handbag without handles or straps that is meant to be carried in the hand or under the arm. It is typically used for formal occasions and is designed to hold only a few essentials such as a cell phone, wallet, and makeup. Clutches come in various shapes and sizes, and they can be made of different materials such as leather, satin, or beaded fabric. Some clutches may have embellishments such as sequins, embroidery, or jewels to add a touch of glamour to an outfit. The name "clutch" comes from the verb "to clutch," meaning to grip tightly, as this is how the bag is typically held.

the act of grasping

a tense critical situation

a coupling that connects or disconnects driving and driven parts of a driving mechanism

a collection of things or persons to be handled together

a number of birds hatched at the same time