clench

n 1: a nail with its point bent over [syn: {clinch}]

2: the act of grasping; "he released his clasp on my arm"; "he

has a strong grip for an old man"; "she kept a firm hold

on the railing" [syn: {clasp}, {clutch}, {clutches}, {grasp},

{grip}, {hold}]

v 1: hold in a tight grasp; "The boxer clinched his opponent";

"clench a steering wheel" [syn: {clinch}]

2: squeeze together tightly, as of one's fists