clamp

²clamp

verb

Definition of CLAMP

transitive verb

1

: to fasten with or as if with a clamp <clamp two boards together>

2

a : to place by decree : impose —often used with on <clamped on a curfew after the riots> b : to hold tightly

Examples of CLAMP

1. The surgeon clamped the vein.
2. He clamped the two pieces of wood together.
3. The bit was clamped firmly between the horse's teeth.
4. He clamped his mouth shut and refused to speak.

First Known Use of CLAMP

1683

Related to CLAMP

Synonyms: anchor, catch, fasten, fix, hitch, moor, secure, set

Antonyms: loose, loosen, unfasten, unfix, unloose, unloosen

Related Words: embed (also imbed), entrench (also intrench), implant, ingrain (also engrain), lodge, stuff, wedge

Near Antonyms: extract, prize, pry, pull, root (out), tear (out), uproot, wrest, yank

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