Definition

Not firmly held or secured; loose or not tightly fastened.

Example

The unclinched lid on the jar made it easy for the contents to spill out.

Conversation

Have you seen that new sports documentary?

Not yet, but I've heard it's really good.

Yeah, they say it covers some unclinched moments that changed the game.

That sounds interesting! I love when they highlight those pivotal events.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Unclinched → It is formed from "un-" (meaning not) and "clinched" (from the verb "clinch", which comes from Middle English *clenchen*, meaning to grasp or hold firmly). The word "unclinched" means not held firmly or not secured.

Memory Tip

Think of 'not' ('un-') holding something 'firmly' ('clinched') — that's why unclinched means something is not secured.

Visually Confused Words