Clutch
Part of speech: noun
Definition: A device to interrupt power transmission, commonly used between engine and gearbox in a car. The pedal in a car that disengages power transmission. A hand or claw, when it is grasping something firmly. A small handbag or purse with no straps or handle. A group or bunch, especially of eggs or baby birds. An important or critical situation.
Part of speech: verb
Definition: To grip or grasp tightly.
Part of speech: adjective
Definition: Tending to perform well in difficult, high-pressure situations.
Example sentence: I think. as a child, there's something frightening about certain adults, particularly when you're in their clutches or power. That must be the reason why Roald Dahl creates such brilliant characters: He taps into something in the collective memory of people.
Seize
Part of speech: verb
Definition: to deliberately take hold of; to grab or captureto take advantage of (an opportunity or circumstance)to take possession of (by force, law etc.)to have a sudden and powerful effect uponto bind, lash or make fast, with several turns of small rope, cord, or small lineto fasten, fixto lay hold in seizure, by hands or claws (+ or )to have a seizureto bind or lock in position immovably; see also seize up
Example sentence: A melting Arctic creates a more permissive environment for Russia and China to seize territory.