I. ˈklamp noun
Etymology: Middle English, probably from Middle Dutch * klampe; akin to Old English clamm bond, fetter — more at clam
Date: 14th century
1. : a device designed to bind or constrict or to press two or more parts together so as to hold them firmly
2. : any of various instruments or appliances having parts brought together for holding or compressing something
II. transitive verb
Date: 1683
1. : to fasten with or as if with a clamp
clamp two boards together
2.
a. : to place by decree : impose — often used with on
clamp ed on a curfew after the riots
b. : to hold tightly