# clenching

/klˈɛntʃɪŋ/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Verb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/clenching
Updated: 2026-10-18

## Definition

to close something tightly, like your fists or teeth, often when you feel angry, nervous, or in pain.

For teachers: to close or squeeze tightly, especially the fists, teeth, or muscles in response to tension, anger, or effort.

## Examples

- She is clenching her fists because she feels angry.
- He sat in the dentist's waiting room, clenching his jaw while he tried to stay calm.
- With the turbulence growing worse outside, she sat clenching the armrest, breathing slowly to keep her fear under control.

## Synonyms

Grit

## Antonyms

relax

## Usage notes

- The verb is transitive and takes a direct object, often a body part such as fists, teeth, or jaw.

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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.