Clamp
/klæmp/
nounverbB1
Definition
As a noun, a clamp is a device that holds objects firmly in place so they do not move or separate. As a verb, to clamp means to fasten or press something tightly to keep it still or secure. Clamps are often used in woodworking, metalwork, or any task needing strong holding.
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⚡ See It in Action
A tool or device used to hold things tightly together
- •He used a clamp to hold the pieces of wood while the glue dried.
- •The mechanic put a clamp on the pipe to stop the leak.
- •Clamps are important in woodworking to keep parts fixed during work.
To fasten or hold something tightly with a clamp or by force
- •She clamped the lid tightly to keep the jar sealed.
- •The teacher clamped down on noisy students to keep order.
- •The machine clamps the metal sheets before cutting.
🧲 Make It Stick
- ✓Think of "clamp" like "hold" (A1 word), but much stronger and tighter, like locking something so it cannot move
- ✓Picture a metal tool with two arms that squeeze a piece of wood tightly so it doesn’t slip
- ✓It’s the feeling when you press your hands hard to keep a book closed or when someone grabs your arm firmly
- ✓Sounds like "clamp" → imagine a clamp snapping shut with a loud "clamp" sound, locking things in place
- ✓Remember a carpenter using a clamp to hold wood while gluing or cutting, so it stays still
- ✓NOT like "hold" (can be soft or gentle), "clamp" means strong, tight pressure to stop movement
- ✓NOT like "tie" (using rope or string), clamp uses pressure or mechanical force to fasten
- ✓NOT like "press" (which can be light), clamp is firm and unmovable pressure
🔄 Try Other Words
- •Grip: to hold something tightly (Use when emphasizing the strength of holding but not necessarily using a tool)
- •Fasten: to fix or attach something securely (Use when attaching parts together, not always with pressure)
- •Secure: to make safe or fixed firmly (Use when focusing on safety or preventing movement)
- •Press: to push something firmly (Use when the action is pushing but not necessarily holding permanently)
🔍 Unboxing
- •Word parts: (no prefix or suffix) — root word "clamp" is simple and complete
- •Etymology: From Old English "clamm" meaning a device to hold or a hook; related to words meaning grasp or catch
- •Historical development: Used since Middle Ages for tools that hold things tightly; originally related to hooks and catches
- •Modern usage: Commonly used for tools in carpentry, metalwork, and everyday actions of holding or fastening tightly
💭 Reflect & Connect
•Can you think of times when you needed to clamp something tightly? What happened if you didn’t?
•How is clamping different from simply holding or tying something? When is clamping better?
Fill in the blanks with the correct word:
1.To fix the broken chair, he used a clamp to ___ the wooden parts firmly together.
2.When the pipe started leaking, the plumber clamped it ___ to stop the water.
3.Unlike holding something gently, to clamp means to press with ___ strength so it won’t move.
4.The teacher clamped down on the noisy class because the students ___ too loud.
5.The machine clamps the metal sheets ___ before cutting them to keep them steady.
6.She clamped the lid tightly so the jar would not ___ open during transport.
7.When you clamp something, you usually want it to stay ___ and not move or fall apart.