clutches

1. The claw of a predatory animal or bird.
2. (by extension) A grip, especially one seen as rapacious or evil.
3. A device to interrupt power transmission, commonly used to separate the engine and gearbox in a car.
4. The pedal in a car that disengages power and torque transmission from the engine (through the drivetrain) to the drive wheels.
5. Any device for gripping an object, as at the end of a chain or tackle.
6. A small handbag or purse with no straps or handle.

1. To seize, as though with claws.

   to clutch power

2. To grip or grasp tightly.

   She clutched her purse tightly and walked nervously into the building.

1. A brood of chickens or a sitting of eggs.
2. A group or bunch (of people or things).

verb

To hatch.

noun

An important or critical situation.