English · Word Candidate

clutch

/ˈklʌt͡ʃ/

Proposed by a contributor, not yet supported by evidence.

Also seen as: clutching · clutched

Sense 1

Meaning · English

To seize, as though with claws.

Verb

Examples

to clutch power

Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Sense 2

Meaning · English

To grip or grasp tightly.

Verb

Examples

She clutched her purse tightly and walked nervously into the building.

Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Sense 3

Meaning · English

The claw of a predatory animal or bird.

Noun

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Sense 4

Meaning · English

A grip, especially one seen as rapacious or evil.

Noun

Examples

I muſt have great leiſure, and little care of my ſelf, if I ever more come near the Clutches of ſuch a Giant, who ſeems to write with a Beetle inſtead of a Pen; […]

Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Common questions

What does “clutch” mean?

To seize, as though with claws.

Is “clutch” formal or informal?

No register label has been reviewed yet — treat it as neutral and check the usage notes above.