I. ˈklinch 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 ˈklin-chiŋ-lē adverb
II. noun
Date: 1659
1. : a fastening by means of a clinched nail, rivet, or bolt ; also : the clinched part of a nail, rivet, or bolt
2. archaic : pun
3. : an act or instance of clinching in boxing
4. : embrace