clinch (kl nch)v. clinched, clinch·ing, clinch·es v.tr. 1. a. To fix or secure (a nail or bolt, for example) by bending down or flattening the pointed end that protrudes. b. To fasten together in this way. 2. To settle definitely and conclusively; make final: "The cocktail circuit is a constant and more contracts are clinched over pâté than over paper" (Ann L. Trebbe). 3. Sports To secure (a divisional championship, for instance) before the end of regular season play by having an insurmountable lead. 4. Nautical To fasten with a clinch. v.intr. 1. To be held together securely. 2. Sports To hold a boxing opponent's body with one or both arms to prevent or hinder punches. 3. Slang To embrace amorously. n. 1. Something, such as a clamp, that clinches. 2. The clinched part of a nail, bolt, or rivet. 3. Sports An act or instance of clinching in boxing. 4. Nautical A knot in a rope made by a half hitch with the end of the rope fastened back by seizing. Also called clench. 5. Slang An amorous embrace. [Variant of clench.] |   |
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