clench

English

/klɛntʃ/

verb
Definitions
  • To grip or hold fast.
  • To close tightly.

Etymology

Inherited from Middle English clenchen inherited from Old English clenċan (hold fast, clinch), clenġan (adhere, remain) inherited from Proto-Germanic *klangijaną.

Origin

Proto-Germanic

*klangijaną

Gloss

Timeline

Distribution of cognates by language

Geogrpahic distribution of cognates

Cognates and derived terms