clutches
/ˈklʌtʃɪz/
noun
- Power or control over someone or something, especially in a harmful or unwanted way.
- The country fell into the clutches of a cruel dictator.
- She managed to escape the clutches of the scam artist.
- He was caught in the clutches of a terrible addiction.
- A tight hold or grip with the hands.
- He felt the strong clutches of his friend pulling him back from the edge.
- The baby bird struggled to free itself from the cat's clutches.
- She broke free from his clutches and ran away.