LATCHES Synonyms: 75 Similar and Opposite Words

latches

verb

present tense third-person singular of latch

as in clenches

to close or secure (something, such as a door) with a latch latch the gate

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Example Sentences

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.

Recent Examples of latches Both the containers and lids are made from glass, and the lids are sealed with food-safe silicone that latches into place on both sides for an airtight design without leaks. — Caley Sturgill, Southern Living, 18 July 2026 Cici in the Sky also recommends Sabre’s portable door lock, which latches onto the strike plate to reinforce the existing lock. — Olivia Young, Travel + Leisure, 26 June 2026 In the footage, the larger male bear latches onto the smaller bear with its mouth, sinking its teeth into the animal, repeatedly ripping at the female bear's fur and skin. — Bailey Richards, PEOPLE, 16 June 2026 Bad things happen when an AI chatbot latches onto one of your neuroses. — Frank Landymore, Futurism, 8 Apr. 2026 As the Ivorian latches onto the through pass, Ryan Longman appears into shot, finishing first-time from a cutback to put the away side into the lead. — Thom Harris, New York Times, 7 Mar. 2026 My brain latches onto the process of production so well. — Nicole Fell, HollywoodReporter, 27 Feb. 2026 The robotic submarine latches onto the hull of friendly ships or submarines, conserving energy while traveling hundreds or thousands of miles to distant mission areas. — Sujita Sinha, Interesting Engineering, 10 Feb. 2026 Typically said when someone copies a trend, latches onto a friend's obsession, or just teases in a playful way. — Annabelle Canela, Parents, 5 Sep. 2025

Recent Examples of Synonyms for latches

Verb

As the comedy progresses, its buoyant tone clenches and darkens, and the plot bends and lurches, in ways that, to me, felt unnecessarily punitive toward both Haru and the audience.

— Justin Chang, New Yorker, 31 Jan. 2026
As the infection takes hold, a patient’s jaw clenches, forcing the face into what appears to be a wide smile, and the back muscles contort into a painful arch.

— Mustafa Fattah, NBC news, 24 Dec. 2025

Definition of clenches

Verb

In a men’s semifinal match, Roger Federer outlasts Juan Martin del Potro in a 19-17 final set and clinches his first Olympic singles medal.

— Assistant Sports Editor, Los Angeles Times, 4 Aug. 2026
If its price retreats from these incredible heights by before SpaceX clinches the deal, that number will rise.

— Shawn Tully, Fortune, 19 June 2026

Definition of clinches

Verb

This episode, Zack wakes up and bolts upright with the bandage still on his head from getting clobbered with a sign on his birthday and can’t remember what happened the night before.

— Brian Moylan, Vulture, 9 July 2026
When spinach bolts, the plant focuses its energy on producing flowers and seeds rather than leaves.

— Michelle Mastro, Martha Stewart, 29 Apr. 2026