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Clamp Definition, Usage & Practical Examples (2 meaning)

Meaning 1:fasten tightly (clamp)

clamp 🔊
/klæmp/
v.
To use a tool like a clamp or vice to hold two things together tightly so they cannot move.
Clamp meaning illustrated: a metal C-clamp securing two wood pieces in a workshop.
fasten tightly 🔊
/ˈfɑːsən ˈtaɪtli/
v.
To secure or hold objects firmly in place using a mechanical device that applies pressure.
📁 Category:Objects & Materials 🔖 Level:Intermediate

📘 Details & Usage

📖 Root Explanation
Likely from Middle Dutch 'klampe' (a clamp, brace).
💡 Mnemonic
CLAMP sounds like CLAP with an M for Metal, reminding you of metal tools that hold things tight.
📖 Example
Dad clamped the two pieces of wood together while the glue dried. 🔊 Dad fastened the two pieces of wood together tightly while the glue dried.
🔗 Collocations
clamp down – to become stricter in trying to stop something
clamp onto – to attach or hold onto something firmly
pipe clamp – a type of clamp used for holding pipes
🔄 Synonyms
fasten (v.) – to close or attach something securely
secure (v.) – to fix or hold something firmly in place
fix (v.) – to make something stable or immobile
🚫 Antonyms
loosen (v.) – to make something less tight
release (v.) – to set free from confinement
detach (v.) – to disconnect or separate something
🌱 Derivatives
clamp (n.) – a device used to hold objects tightly together
clamper (n.) – a person or device that clamps
📖 Cultural Story
In DIY and engineering culture, clamps are essential for woodworking, metalworking, and repairs, symbolizing temporary but secure fixation. The phrase 'to clamp down' is frequently used in news headlines regarding government crackdowns on activities.

Meaning 2:impose restrictions (clamp)

clamp 🔊
/klæmp/
v.
To impose strict controls or limits on something, like a government stopping an activity.
Clamp definition: imposing restrictions symbolized by a stop stamp on documents.
impose restrictions 🔊
/ɪmˈpoʊz rɪˈstrɪkʃənz/
v.
To apply strict controls, limits, or forceful measures to suppress or stop an activity.
📁 Category:Laws & Regulations 🔖 Level:Intermediate

📘 Details & Usage

📖 Example
The city council voted to clamp down on illegal parking in the downtown area. 🔊 The city council voted to impose strict restrictions on illegal parking in the downtown area.
🔗 Collocations
clamp down on – to take strong action to stop or limit something
security clamp – a period of increased security restrictions
price clamp – government-imposed controls on prices
🔄 Synonyms
restrict (v.) – to put a limit on something
curb (v.) – to restrain or keep in check
suppress (v.) – to forcibly put an end to something
🚫 Antonyms
deregulate (v.) – to remove regulations or controls from
liberalize (v.) – to make laws or rules less strict
permit (v.) – to allow or authorize
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