Meaning

• The claw of a predatory animal or bird.

• (by extension) A grip, especially one seen as rapacious or evil.

• A device to interrupt power transmission, commonly used to separate the engine and gearbox in a car.

• The pedal in a car that disengages power and torque transmission from the engine (through the drivetrain) to the drive wheels.

• Any device for gripping an object, as at the end of a chain or tackle.

• A small handbag or purse with no straps or handle.

Meaning

• To seize, as though with claws.

  "to clutch power"

• To grip or grasp tightly.

  "She clutched her purse tightly and walked nervously into the building."