Definitions of clutch:

• noun:   a coupling that connects or disconnects driving and driven parts of a driving mechanism
• noun:   a pedal that operates a clutch
• noun:   a number of birds hatched at the same time
• noun:   a tense critical situation

  Example: "He is a good man in the clutch"

• noun:   a collection of things or persons to be handled together
• noun:   the act of grasping
• verb:   affect
• verb:   take hold of; grab

  Example: "She clutched her purse"

• verb:   hold firmly, usually with one's hands

  Example: "She clutched my arm when she got scared"