clinch

//klɪntʃ//
B2Frequency Level 11Neutral
Visual representation of clinch

Verb

clinchInfinitive
clinchPresent tense
clinchedPast tense
clinchedPast participle
clinchingPresent participle
clinchesThird-person singular
1

To secure or settle something decisively, especially a deal, victory, or argument.

The team clinched the championship with a last-minute goal.

2

To fasten or hold something firmly, especially by bending or flattening the protruding end of a nail or bolt.

He clinched the nail by bending its tip over.

3

In boxing or wrestling, to hold an opponent at close range with one or both arms to prevent or hinder punches.

The boxer clinched his opponent to avoid taking more punches.

Antonym

Noun

clinchSingular
clinchesPlural
1

A decisive point or factor that settles a matter.

The new evidence was the clinch that solved the case.

2

In boxing or wrestling, a position in which two opponents hold each other at close range.

The referee separated the two boxers from the clinch.

3

A tight embrace, especially a romantic one.

The couple shared a long clinch under the moonlight.

Synonym

clinch - Deep Vocabulary