Bayonet clutch (Mach.), a clutch in which connection is made by means of bayonets attached to arms sliding on a feathered shaft. The bayonets slide through holes in a crosshead fastened on the shaft.
Clutch, v. t. [imp. & p. p. Clutched (?); p. pr. & vb. n. Clutching.] [OE. clucchen. See Clutch, n.] 1. To seize, clasp, or gripe with the hand, hands, or claws; -- often figuratively; as, to clutch power.
A man may set the poles together in his head, and clutch the whole globe at one intellectual grasp.
Collier.
Is this a dagger which I see before me . . . ?
Come, let me clutch thee.
Shak.