clutch1

v. 1 seize eagerly; grasp tightly. 2 (foll. By at) try desperately to seize. n. 1 tight grasp. 2 (in pl.) Grasping hands; cruel or relentless grasp or control. 3 a (in a vehicle) device for connecting and disconnecting the engine and the transmission. B pedal operating this. [old english]