Dictionary definition · pinch
noun
- a painful or straitened circumstance"the pinch of the recession"
- an injury resulting from getting some body part squeezed
- a slight but appreciable amount"this dish could use a touch of garlic"
- a sudden unforeseen crisis (usually involving danger) that requires immediate action"he never knew what to do in an emergency"
- a small sharp bite or snip
- a squeeze with the fingers
- the act of apprehending (especially apprehending a criminal)"the policeman on the beat got credit for the collar"
verb
- squeeze tightly between the fingers"He pinched her behind"
- make ridges into by pinching together
- make off with belongings of others
- cut the top off"top trees and bushes"
- irritate as if by a nip, pinch, or tear"smooth surfaces can vellicate the teeth"
Source: Open English WordNet (CC BY 4.0).