clutch

Everyday

1. To hold something tightly, often because you are afraid, in pain or don't want to lose it. tree →
2. To try to grab something quickly («clutch at the rope»). tree →
3. (noun) A pedal in a car (and a lever on a motorbike) used to change gears. tree →
4. (noun) A group of eggs laid at one time by a bird, or a group of chicks; also a small group of things. tree →
5. (noun) In «in someone's clutches»: in someone's power or control. tree →
6. (slang, especially US) Very good at doing well in a tense, important moment («a clutch shot»). tree →
7. (noun) A small handbag with no handle, held in the hand. tree →

In the lessons

In stories it shows fear or determination — clutching a teddy, clutching a ticket. The idiom «clutch at straws» means trying anything when there is little hope. In nature lessons a hen sits on a clutch of eggs. In driving, the clutch is pressed to change gear. In sport talk (especially in North America), a «clutch» player scores when it matters most. It tells the reader about holding tight, power or eggs.

Examples

• She clutched her mum's hand in the dark corridor. tree →
• He was clutching a crumpled five-pound note. tree →
• The duck sat on a clutch of eight eggs. tree →
• Press the clutch before you change gear. tree →
• The princess was in the witch's clutches. tree →
• That last-second basket was so clutch! tree →
• He clutched his stomach and groaned. tree →
• Don't clutch at straws — just admit you forgot. tree →
• But he stretched out his arm and clutched wildly at the mane and pulled himself into the saddle. tree →

Note

Verb: clutches, clutched, clutching. Noun plural: clutches. Note the many meanings — read the sentence: eggs, cars, grip, bags or slang. «Clutch» as an adjective (a clutch player) is informal slang, mainly American.