1. to hold or squeeze something tightly with your hand or teeth
2. to close your hand into a tight fist
3. to tighten your jaw or teeth, often as a sign of anger or determination

Examples

• She clenched her fists in frustration.
• He clenched the rope tightly as he climbed.
• The boxer clenched his teeth before the match.
• She clenched her jaw to keep from crying.
• He clenched the steering wheel during the tense moment.
• The child clenched the toy in both hands.
• She clenched her purse as she walked through the crowd.