You searched for: “clamp
clamp (s) (noun), clamps (pl)
A tool or device, the purpose of which is to secure one or two objects firmly in place: Trudy's friend, who is a carpenter, has several sizes of clamps to use in her work.

Some clamps are mechanical devices that have movable jaws so an object can be secured to a bench or work table.

This entry is located in the following unit: English Words in Action, Group C (page 4)
clamp (verb), clamps; clamped; clamping
1. To fasten two or more things firmly together by using a device or tool which holds something together tightly: The doctor clamped the blood vein during the operation.
2. To hold something firmly and tightly in position: Chuck clamped the two pieces of glued wood together until they become securely attached.
3. To establish by some authority or to impose: The government clamped a tax on imports from certain countries.
4. To press or to squeeze something: When asked to explain what happened at the meeting last night, Shanna clamped her mouth shut and refused to say anything about it.
This entry is located in the following unit: English Words in Action, Group C (page 4)