clincher

noun

clinch·​er ˈklin-chər How to pronounce clincher (audio)
: one that clinches: such as
a
: a decisive fact, argument, act, or remark
the expense was the clincher that persuaded us to give up the enterprise
b
: a tire with flanged beads fitting into the wheel rim

Examples of clincher in a Sentence

the fact that the resort had tennis courts was the clincher in our deciding to stay there
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Washington took Game 1, the first of three — including Pittsburgh’s clincher — that went to overtime. Sean Gentille, New York Times, 25 Oct. 2025 Edwards went 5 for 7 on mid-range attempts in Portland, with the fifth make serving as the game clincher. Jace Frederick, Twin Cities, 23 Oct. 2025 Miami Heat star Bam Adebayo, who is in a relationship with Wilson, was on hand for Friday's clincher. Chantz Martin, FOXNews.com, 11 Oct. 2025 The Aces never trailed in the series clincher, building a 30-21 lead by the end of the first quarter on 55% shooting. NPR, 11 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for clincher

Word History

First Known Use

1703, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of clincher was in 1703

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Clincher.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/clincher. Accessed 27 Oct. 2025.

Kids Definition

clincher

noun
clinch·​er ˈklin-chər How to pronounce clincher (audio)
: one that clinches
especially : a decisive fact or argument

More from Merriam-Webster on clincher

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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