[kluhch] 
| 1. | to seize with or as with the hands or claws; snatch: The bird swooped down and clutched its prey with its claws. |
| 2. | to grip or hold tightly or firmly: She clutched the child's hand as they crossed the street. |
| 3. | Slang. to spellbind; grip a person's emotions, attention, or interest: Garbo movies really clutch me. |
| 4. | to try to seize or grasp (usually fol. by at): He clutched at the fleeing child. She clutched at the opportunity. |
| 5. | Slang. to become tense with fright; panic (sometimes fol. by up): I clutched up on the math exam. |
| 6. | to operate the clutch in a vehicle. |
| 7. | the hand, claw, etc., when grasping. |
| 8. | Usually, clutches. power of disposal or control; mastery: She fell into the clutches of the enemy. |
| 9. | the act of clutching; a snatch or grasp. |
| 10. | a tight grip or hold. |
| 11. | a device for gripping something. |
| 12. | Automotive, Machinery.
|
| 13. | Sports. an extremely important or crucial moment of a game: He was famous for his coolness in pitching in the clutch. |
| 14. | any critical position or situation; emergency: She kept complete control in the clutch. |
| 15. | Also called clutch bag, clutch purse. a woman's small purse that can be carried in the hand and usually has no handle or strap. |
| 16. | done or accomplished in a critical situation: a clutch shot that won the basketball game. |
| 17. | dependable in crucial situations: a clutch player. |
| 18. | (of a coat) without fasteners; held closed in front by one's hand or arm. |
clutch (up)
|