Definition
To succeed under extreme pressure at the last possible moment. From gaming where a 'clutch play' means winning an unwinnable situation (1v4, defusing the bomb with 1 second left, etc.). Now used broadly: acing a test you didn't study for, catching something before it falls, making a deadline by seconds. 'That was clutch' = that was an incredible save.
Translation for Parents
This is actually a pretty intuitive one. If your kid says something was 'clutch,' they mean it saved the day at the last second. Brought an umbrella right before it rained? Clutch. Found the charger when the phone was at 1%? Clutch. It's from video games but the meaning translates perfectly to real life.
Examples
“bro brought extra pencils to the test that was so clutch”
“He brought extra pencils to the test, that really saved us”
“she clutched the presentation when our slides crashed”
“She saved the presentation when our slides stopped working”
Cringe Score
Mildly embarrassing
One of the safest gaming terms a parent can use. 'Clutch' has been mainstream since before your kid was born. Use it freely. You've earned this one.
Category
compliment
Last Verified
2026-02-26
Sources
editorial, urban_dictionary