Word · countable noun; transitive verb · usually with a placement phrase · C1 · Neutral · tools, physical actions, and technical use
clamp
KLAMP One syllable; pronounce both the m and the final p.
A device that holds things tightly in place; as a verb, to fasten or hold something firmly.
stega; obujmica; stegnuti ili čvrsto pričvrstiti
Use it
Use two clamps to hold the frame steady while the glue dries.
The countable noun names the holding device.
She clamped her hand over her mouth to stop herself from laughing.
The verb can mean hold or press firmly without a tool.
Build the sentence
a clamp · clamp + object + to/onto + surface · clamp + pieces + together
Memory scene
Two boards stay pressed together while glue dries. The clamp holds them firmly instead of letting them slide apart.
Watch out
A clamp holds things securely; squeeze emphasizes pressure and need not secure anything. In programming, clamp a value means limit it to a specified range. Clamp down on means suppress or restrict an activity, a separate phrasal verb.
Nearby language
Means attach securely by any method, without necessarily applying clamping pressure.
Emphasizes holding tightly, often with a hand, without necessarily fastening things together.
Means take strong measures to restrict an activity, not physically attach an object.
Make it yours
Drvena daska se pomera dok pokušavate da je bušite. Savetujete da se prvo čvrsto pričvrsti za radni sto.