The Clue
Boxers' entanglements (8 letter answer)
The Answer
CLINCHES
Tags
Notes
The answer CLINCHES is so rare that it appears less than once every 2500 puzzles.
Definition
CLINCH as a noun:
1. (boxing) the act of one boxer holding onto the other to avoid being hit and to rest momentarily
2. (clinch, clench) = a small slip noose made with seizing
3. the flattened part of a nail or bolt or rivet
4. (clamp, clinch) = a device (generally used by carpenters) that holds things firmly together
5. (hug, clinch, squeeze) = a tight or amorous embrace; "come here and give me a big hug"
CLINCH as a verb:
1. secure or fasten by flattening the ends of nails or bolts; "The girder was clinched into the wall"
2. hold a boxing opponent with one or both arms so as to prevent punches
3. (clench, clinch) = hold in a tight grasp; "clench a steering wheel"
4. embrace amorously
5. flatten the ends (of nails and rivets); "the nails were clinched"
6. settle conclusively; "clinch a deal"