Clutch

/klʌtʃ/

Meaning & Definition

noun
A device that engages and disengages power transmission, especially in vehicles.
He pressed the clutch to switch gears smoothly while driving.
A group of eggs laid by a bird, or a set of items held together.
The mother hen was sitting on her clutch of eggs, keeping them warm.
A tight grasp or hold.
In a clutch of panic, he reached for his phone.
verb
To grasp or hold tightly.
She clutched the railing as she ascended the stairs.
To seize or grab something forcefully.
The child clutched his toy bear while watching the movie.
adjective
Crucial or decisive, especially in a critical situation.
She made a clutch play in the final minutes of the game.

Etymology

Middle English clutchen, to clutch or clutch at, from Old English clyccan.

Common Phrases and Expressions

clutch performance
A performance executed at a critical moment.
in the clutch
In a critical situation where pressure is high.
clutch play
A decisive play that determines the outcome of a game.

Related Words

clutcher
A person who clutches or seizes tightly.
clutch bag
A small handbag without handles.
clutching
The act of grasping or holding tightly.

Slang Meanings

In sports, a term used to describe a player who performs exceptionally well under pressure.
That quarterback is so clutch; he always comes through in the last minutes.
Something that is impressive or outstanding.
That last-minute goal was clutch!