An expiring clutch at popularity. --Carlyle.
But Age, with his stealing steps, Hath clawed me in
his clutch. --Shak.
2. pl. The hands, claws, or talons, in the act of grasping
firmly; -- often figuratively, for power, rapacity, or
cruelty; as, to fall into the clutches of an adversary.
I must have . . . little care of myself, if I ever
more come near the clutches of such a giant. --Bp.
Stillingfleet.
3. (Mach.) A device which is used for coupling shafting,
etc., so as to transmit motion, and which may be
disengaged at pleasure.
4. Any device for gripping an object, as at the end of a
chain or tackle.
5. (Zo["o]l.) The nest complement of eggs of a bird.
{Bayonet clutch} (Mach.), a clutch in which connection is
made by means of bayonets attached to arms sliding on a
feathered shaft. The bayonets slide through holes in a
crosshead fastened on the shaft.
Clutching at the phantoms of the stock market.
--Bankroft.
A man may set the poles together in his head, and
clutch the whole globe at one intellectual grasp.
--Collier.
Is this a dagger which I see before me . . . ? Come,
let me clutch thee. --Shak.
2. To close tightly; to clinch.
Not that I have the power to clutch my hand. --Shak.