clinch
UK: klɪn(t)ʃ | US: klɪn(t)ʃ
vt. to settle (an argument, deal, etc.) decisively
vt. to secure (a nail, rope, etc.) by bending or flattening the end
n. a decisive or final action to conclude something
n. (boxing) a tight grip to prevent an opponent from moving
"Clinch" evolved from Old English clencan, emphasizing the idea of bending or securing something tightly. By the 16th century, it gained figurative use (e.g., "clinch an argument") by extending the concept of "fastening" to abstract outcomes. The boxing term emerged later, reflecting the physical grip akin to bending an opponent's movement.
The team scored in the final minute to clinch the championship.
He used a hammer to clinch the nail firmly into place.
After hours of negotiation, they clinched the business deal.
The boxer avoided punches by holding his opponent in a clinch.
Her brilliant reply clinched the debate in her favor.