26984 words

clutch

17 definitions • 23 examples
1
to take or try to take hold of something or someone tightly, usually in fear, worry, or pain:

Examples:

clutch onto Silent and pale, she clutched onto her mother's hand.
clutch something to something Clutching the money to his chest, he hurried to the bank.
2
a device that allows turning movement to be sent from one part of a machine to another:

Examples:

clutch slips I've booked the car into the garage because the clutch is slipping.
3
the pedal or handle in a vehicle that is used to operate the engine's clutch:

Examples:

push the clutch in Push the clutch in, put the car into gear, rev the engine, and then gently let the clutch out.
let the clutch out Push the clutch in, put the car into gear, rev the engine, and then gently let the clutch out.
pop the clutch Try pushing the vehicle and popping the clutch (= releasing it suddenly and completely) if it will not start.
4
a small group of eggs produced by the same bird, especially in a nest
5
a small group of people or things:

Examples:

clutch of a fresh clutch of students
6
the control of someone:

Examples:

be in the clutches of He is in the clutches of that woman.
7
a difficult and important situation that needs a lot of skill to deal with successfully:

Examples:

in the clutch "This team was able to perform in the clutch every time," he said.
clutch situation He remained cool under pressure and made accurate throws in clutch situations.
8

Examples:

I hoped that my beginner's luck would come in clutch.
She learns that even though families might not be perfect, they sometimes come in clutch to save the day.
These maths posters will help your child with their homework, and come in clutch for parents who need a little maths refresher too.
9
able to do something when it is especially difficult or especially needed:

Examples:

Moose, always reliable under pressure, was an amazing clutch hitter.
clutch performer He developed the reputation for being the big winner, the clutch performer.
10

Examples:

It was his leadership and clutch play that made him special.
The team managed only three hits after falling behind, but came up with the clutch hit when it needed it the most.
11
used to say that something is extremely good or useful, or exactly what is needed in a situation:

Examples:

I found five dollars in my pocket. That was so damn clutch.
12
to hold or try to hold something tightly, often because of a state of fear or anxiety:

Examples:

[ T ] The preschooler clutched his mother tightly.
13
a device in a car or other vehicle that you press with your foot in order to change gears (= set of wheels that control power)
14

Examples:

15
A clutch is also a group of people, animals, or things:

Examples:

The herders tend to small clutches of cattle and llamas.
16
a small bag with no handle or strap, used esp. by women for carrying small personal items
17
able to do something when it is especially needed:

Examples:

Moose, always reliable under pressure, was a tremendous clutch hitter.

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