Synonyms for

Pinch

Verb / pɪntʃ / Another word for pinch — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

to squeeze something between two things such as fingers or claws

Synonyms & similar words

speck apprehension sneak tinge top emergency jot catch collar cabbage nobble lift touch crimp filch hint soupcon twinge mite exigency hook arrest abstract tweet purloin squeeze nip compress grasp twist tweak tweeze grip clasp catch hold snatch glean pluck pick harvest gather collect take grab

Synonyms by register

Formal

compress squeeze constrict

Informal

nip grab squeeze clutch

Literary

crimp wring

Antonyms

release loosen free slack expand unclench

Common collocations

  • pinch of salt
  • in a pinch
  • pinch of sugar
  • pinch of spice
  • pinch of herbs
  • pinch of pepper
  • pinch of salt to taste

Word family

noun pinch
verb pinch
adjective pinched

Usage note

The phrase 'in a pinch' means in a difficult situation or emergency. 'Pinch' can also refer to a small amount of something, like a 'pinch of salt'.

Example sentences

  1. I will pinch the bread to check if it's fresh.
  2. The crab will pinch with its claws to defend itself.
  3. Grandma will pinch your cheeks if she thinks you're cute.
  4. The clothespin will pinch the clothes on the line.
  5. I will pinch my nose to avoid the bad smell.

Quotes

  • A pinch of salt makes the food taste better.
  • You never know how much a little pinch can hurt until you get it.
  • A pinch of patience is worth a pound of brains.

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