# clenched

/ˈkɫɛntʃt/ (US) · /klˈɛntʃt/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Verb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/clenched
Updated: 2026-05-19

## Definition

to hold something tightly in your hand or to press your jaw together tightly. You do this when you are angry, nervous, or trying to stay strong.

For teachers: to hold something tightly in the hand or to press the teeth together firmly. Often used to describe physical tension resulting from strong emotions.

## Examples

- He clenched his fists when he heard the bad news.
- The athlete clenched her jaw during the final seconds of the race to stay focused.
- As the tension in the room grew, he clenched his hands into tight fists, though he remained silent to avoid further provoking the situation.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.