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Intermediate Dictionary
       

pinch

 
 
pronunciation:
pInch
parts of speech:
verb, noun
features:
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part of speech: verb
inflections: pinches, pinching, pinched
definition 1: to press hard between two surfaces, such as the finger and thumb.
He pinched my cheek.The door closed on my thumb and pinched it.
synonyms:
compress, squeeze
similar words:
constrict, nip, tighten, wring
definition 2: to press too tightly on.
The helmet was so small it pinched her ears.
synonyms:
restrict
similar words:
constrict, cramp, squeeze
definition 3: to cause to look pale or troubled
Sadness pinched his face.
similar words:
distress
definition 4: (informal) to take into police custody; arrest.
The police pinched the robber as she ran from the bank.
synonyms:
apprehend, arrest, bust, collar, nab
 
part of speech: noun
definition 1: the action or an instance of squeezing between two fingers or two other surfaces.
She woke up her brother with a pinch.
similar words:
nip, squeeze
definition 2: an amount that can be picked up between the thumb and a finger.
This soup needs a pinch of salt.
synonyms:
bit, drop, trace
similar words:
dab, dash, speck
definition 3: an instance or condition of great need or emergency.
When he was in a pinch and needed money, she helped him out.
synonyms:
emergency, need
similar words:
adversity, extremity, hardship, pressure, spot, stress
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