clamp

Meanings

1. 1nouncountable

   A device used to hold, grip, or fasten objects tightly together, often temporarily.

   Grammar: Countable; use a clamp or clamps: Tighten the clamp.

   Patterns

   • a clamp on something
   • tighten a clamp
   • use a clamp to hold something

   He used a clamp to hold the two pieces of wood together while the glue dried.

   The mechanic tightened the clamp around the hose.

   You'll need a clamp to keep the fabric from moving.

2. 2verbtransitive

   To fasten or hold something firmly in place using or as if using a clamp.

   Grammar: Takes an object: clamp the pieces together.

   Patterns

   • clamp something together
   • clamp something to something
   • clamp something onto something

   She clamped the two boards together before drilling.

   He clamped the light to the edge of the table.

   The device is clamped onto the pipe.

Word forms

Common combinations

clamp down on

The city is clamping down on illegal parking.

tighten a clamp

Tighten the clamp so the tube doesn't leak.

clamp together

Clamp the parts together for ten minutes.

a hose clamp

Replace the rusty hose clamp.

Synonyms and how they differ

clip

A small device that holds things together, often with a spring; a clamp is usually stronger and can be tightened.

vise

A heavy tool with two jaws for holding work, usually attached to a bench; a clamp is more portable.

fastener

A general word for anything that fastens, such as a button or screw; a clamp is a specific holding tool.

Word family

clamping noun

The act of holding or fastening with a clamp.

Commonly confused: clamp or clam?

Practice

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