clench

clench (http://definr.com/clench)

     n 1: a small slip noose made with seizing [syn: clinch]
     2: the act of grasping; "he released his clasp on my arm"; "he
        has a strong grip for an old man"; "she kept a firm hold
        on the railing" [syn: clasp, clutch, clutches, grasp,
         grip, hold]
     v 1: hold in a tight grasp; "The boxer clinched his opponent";
          "clench a steering wheel" [syn: clinch]
     2: squeeze together tightly, as of one's fists