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clutch

1 clutch /ˈklʌtʃ/ verb
clutches; clutched; clutching
1 clutch
/ˈklʌtʃ/
verb
clutches; clutched; clutching
Britannica Dictionary definition of CLUTCH
[+ object] : to hold onto (someone or something) tightly with your hand
[no object] : to try to hold onto someone or something by reaching with your hand usually + at

clutch at straws

see straw
2 clutch /ˈklʌtʃ/ noun
plural clutches
2 clutch
/ˈklʌtʃ/
noun
plural clutches
Britannica Dictionary definition of CLUTCH
[count]
: the act of holding or gripping something or someone tightly usually plural
often used figuratively
: a pedal that is pressed to change gears in a vehicle
see picture at car
: the part of a vehicle that is controlled by a clutch

in the clutch

US
: in a very important or critical situation especially during a sports competition
compare 4clutch
3 clutch /ˈklʌtʃ/ adjective
3 clutch
/ˈklʌtʃ/
adjective
Britannica Dictionary definition of CLUTCH
[more clutch; most clutch] US
always used before a noun : happening during a very important or critical time especially in a sports competition
: able to perform well in a very important or critical situation especially in a sports competition
4 clutch /ˈklʌtʃ/ noun
plural clutches
4 clutch
/ˈklʌtʃ/
noun
plural clutches
Britannica Dictionary definition of CLUTCH
[count]
: a group of eggs that is laid by a bird at one time
: a group of young birds produced by a single group of eggs
: a small group of things or people
compare 2clutch