verb (transitive)1. to close or squeeze together (the teeth, a fist, etc) tightly
2. to grasp or grip firmly
noun4. a device that grasps or grips, such as a clamp
noun, verb5. another word for clinch
Word origin
Old English
beclencan, related to Old High German
klenken to tie, Middle High German
klank noose, Dutch
klinken rivet