clinch in WordNet English dictionary

1. a device (generally used by carpenters) that holds things firmly together
   clamp  clinch 
   
2. a small slip noose made with seizing
   clinch  clench 
   
3. (boxing) the act of one boxer holding onto the other to avoid being hit and to rest momentarily
   clinch 
   
4. a tight or amorous embrace
   "come here and give me a big hug"
   hug  clinch  squeeze 
   
5. the flattened part of a nail or bolt or rivet
   clinch 
   

1. hold in a tight grasp
   "clench a steering wheel"
   clench  clinch 
   
2. settle conclusively
   "clinch a deal"
   clinch 
   
3. flatten the ends (of nails and rivets)
   "the nails were clinched"
   clinch 
   
4. secure or fasten by flattening the ends of nails or bolts
   "The girder was clinched into the wall"
   clinch 
   
5. embrace amorously
   clinch 
   
6. hold a boxing opponent with one or both arms so as to prevent punches
   clinch