adj

clenched

Clenched (adj) means Shut or gripped tightly, as a fist, jaw, or teeth. Example: “He spoke through clenched teeth, trying to hide his anger.”

adj

Shut or gripped tightly, as a fist, jaw, or teeth.

"He spoke through clenched teeth, trying to hide his anger."

"Her clenched fists were the only sign of how nervous she really was."

How to use clenched

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishSqueezed or closed tightly, usually describing fists, jaws, or teeth under stress or anger.

Common pairings

clenched fists clenched teeth clenched jaw

Word forms

more clenched comparative, most clenched superlative

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Fill the gap

Can you complete this real example?

He spoke through _____ teeth, trying to hide his anger.

Antonyms

unclenched

Rhymes for clenched

benched drenched

See all rhymes for clenched →

Frequently asked questions

What does “clenched” mean?

The word “clenched” means shut or gripped tightly, as a fist, jaw, or teeth. In plain terms, squeezed or closed tightly, usually describing fists, jaws, or teeth under stress or anger.

How do you use “clenched” in a sentence?

Here is “clenched” used in a sentence: “He spoke through clenched teeth, trying to hide his anger.”

What is the opposite of “clenched”?

The opposite of “clenched” — its antonyms — is unclenched.

What part of speech is “clenched”?

“Clenched” is an adjective.