n.
Pronunciation: ' klinch
Function: verb
Etymology: probably alteration of clench
Date: 1542
transitive verb
1 : CLENCH 3
2 a : to turn over or flatten the protruding pointed end of (a driven nail) also : to treat (as a screw, bolt, or rivet) in a similar way b : to fasten in this way
3 a : to make final or irrefutable : SETTLE <that clinch ed the argument> b : to assure the winning of <scored a touchdown to clinch the game>
intransitive verb
1 : to hold an opponent (as in boxing) at close quarters with one or both arms
2 : to hold fast or firmly
– clinch · ing · ly \ ' klin-chi ŋ -l ē \ adverb