Clamp

/klæmp/

Meaning & Definition

noun

A device used for holding or securing objects tightly together.

He used a clamp to hold the pieces of wood in place while the glue dried.

An instrument for compressing or holding tissues in a surgical procedure.

The surgeon applied a clamp to prevent blood loss during the operation.

verb

To fasten or secure with a clamp.

Please clamp the two metal sheets together so that they don’t move while we weld.

To place under restraint or control.

The government decided to clamp down on illegal street racing.

Middle English; from Old Norse 'klampa' meaning 'to press or fasten'.

clamp down:

To impose stricter measures or restrictions.

clamp together:

To hold multiple items closely together.

clamp in place:

To secure something so that it cannot move.

To seize or catch someone unexpectedly.

He got clamped by security for sneaking in.

To restrict someone's actions.

The manager clamped them from going out late.