Collins English-English Dictionary

clamp [klæmp]

1. 1. n a mechanical device with movable jaws with which an object can be secured to a bench or with which two objects may be secured together

2. 2. n a means by which a fixed joint may be strengthened

3. 3. n [nautical] a horizontal beam fastened to the ribs for supporting the deck beams in a wooden vessel

4. 4. vt. [tr] to fix or fasten with or as if with a clamp

5. 5. vt. to immobilize (a car) by means of a wheel clamp

6. 6. vt. to inflict or impose forcefully

   they clamped a curfew on the town

7. 7. vt. [Etymology] C14: from Dutch or Low German klamp; related to Old English clamm bond, fetter, Old Norse kleppr lump

clamp [klæmp]

1. 1. n [Brit] [agriculture] a mound formed out of a harvested root crop, covered with straw and earth to protect it from winter weather

2. 2. n a pile of bricks ready for processing in a furnace

3. 3. vt. [tr] to enclose (a harvested root crop) in a mound

4. 4. vt. [Etymology] C16: from Middle Dutch klamp heap; related to clump