C1nountravel
US/klʌtʃ/
UK/klʌtʃ/
the pedal used to change gear in a car; also a small group of things, or someone's control
In context
Press the clutch down fully before you change gear.
My first car had a heavy clutch that made my left leg ache.
The young girl finally escaped from the clutches of the gang.
Words that go with clutch
noun + noun
- clutch pedalThe clutch pedal is on the left, next to the brake.
- clutch controlLearner drivers need to practise clutch control on hills.
verb + noun
- release the clutchRelease the clutch slowly while pressing the accelerator.
- press the clutchWhen the car starts to shake, press the clutch and slow down.
noun + preposition
- clutches ofHe fell into the clutches of a criminal gang.
- clutch ofThe singer won a clutch of awards last year.