First Known Use: 1542
Dictionary
1clinch
verb \ˈklinch\
: to make (something) certain or final
: to make certain the winning of (something)
: to hold each other closely during a fight
Full Definition of CLINCH
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 clinched 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
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Origin of CLINCH
probably alteration of clench
2clinch
noun
: a position in which two people (such as two boxers) are holding each other very closely
Full Definition of CLINCH
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
See clinch defined for English-language learners
First Known Use of CLINCH
1659
Clinch
geographical name \ˈklinch\
Definition of CLINCH
river ab 300 miles (480 kilometers) SW Virginia & E Tennessee flowing SW into Tennessee River
CLINCHING Defined for Kids
clinch
verb \ˈklinch\
clinchedclinch·ing
Definition of CLINCH for Kids
: to show to be certain or true <She presented facts that clinched the argument.>
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