in someone's or something's clutches

idiom

: in someone's or something's claws
The hawk had the mouse in its clutches.
often used figuratively to indicate control over someone
They were powerless to oppose them. He had them in his clutches.

Dictionary Entries Near in someone's or something's clutches

Cite this Entry

“In someone's or something's clutches.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/in%20someone%27s%20or%20something%27s%20clutches. Accessed 15 Oct. 2024.

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