GNU Collaborative International Dictionary of English

last match results

Found 3 definitions

1.       
   Clutch , n. [OE. cloche, cloke, claw, Scot. clook, cleuck, also OE. cleche claw, clechen, cleken, to seize; cf. AS. gelæccan (where ge- is a prefix) to seize. Cf. Latch a catch.]
   A gripe or clinching with, or as with, the fingers or claws; seizure; grasp. “The clutch of poverty.” 
   Cowper.
   
   1913 Webster
   An expiring clutch at popularity.
   Carlyle.
   
   1913 Webster
   But Age, with his stealing steps,
   Hath clawed me in his clutch.
   Shak.
   
   1913 Webster
   pl. The hands, claws, or talons, in the act of grasping firmly; -- often figuratively, for power, rapacity, or cruelty; as, to fall into the clutches of an adversary.
   1913 Webster
   I must have . . . little care of myself, if I ever more come near the clutches of such a giant.
   Bp. Stillingfleet.
   
   1913 Webster
   (Mach.) A device which is used for coupling shafting, etc., so as to transmit motion, and which may be disengaged at pleasure.
   1913 Webster
   Any device for gripping an object, as at the end of a chain or tackle.
   1913 Webster
   (Zool.) The nest complement of eggs of a bird.
   1913 Webster
   Bayonet clutch (Mach.), a clutch in which connection is made by means of bayonets attached to arms sliding on a feathered shaft. The bayonets slide through holes in a crosshead fastened on the shaft.
   1913 Webster
   
         
       

2.       
   Clutch, v. t. [imp. & p. p. Clutched ; p. pr. & vb. n. Clutching.] [OE. clucchen. See Clutch, n.]
   To seize, clasp, or grip with the hand, hands, or claws; -- often figuratively; as, to clutch power.
   1913 Webster
   A man may set the poles together in his head, and clutch the whole globe at one intellectual grasp.
   Collier.
   
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   Is this a dagger which I see before me . . . ?
   Come, let me clutch thee.
   Shak.
   
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   To close tightly; to clinch.
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   Not that I have the power to clutch my hand.
   Shak.
   
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3.       
   Clutch, v. i.
   To reach (at something) as if to grasp; to catch or snatch; -- often followed by at.
   1913 Webster
   to become too tense or frightened to perform properly; used sometimes with up; as, he clutched up on the exam.
   PJC