Winning after a clutch penalty kick, Adobe Stock |
I love the word clutch, especially when it describes a person winning a game or accomplishing a difficult activity (such as being the only remaining player on one's team against several opponents). When I hear the word "clutch," multiple meanings come to mind simultaneously:
- Etymologically, clutch comes from the Middle English clitch, which means to "close the hand," or "grasp something tightly" which reminds me of cinching the win (like a horse saddle strap), leaving no room for escape.
- In Old English, clyccan means "crook" or "bend," which adds a new dimension to the word's meaning. A clutch play can be illustrated by a shepherd's crook, illustrating a sudden 180-degree change in the momentum of the game.
- In the vernacular, I imagine a bird of prey's clawed clutch, unexpectedly (or luckily) swooping in and snatching victory away from one's opponents.
- Clutch might also describe the inner sensation of the spectator. I.e., tightness in the chest from nervousness or excited anticipation.
- I do not think about the handheld accessory-storage device often used by women on the go, but I could see a potential connection there.
- The most unique meaning I ascribe to clutch is my favorite. I imagine the person/players releasing a metaphorical "clutch" (like in a manual transmission). They must be stress-free and relaxed to accomplish the unlikely feat. You could also extend this transmission analogy by considering a player taking their play to the next gear or level.
Transmission, Adobe Stock
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