Pronunciation

/fɪst/

Definitions

• Noun: The hand when all fingers except the thumb are curled into the palm, typically to make a compact, hard shape for hitting or striking something. For example: “He clenched his fist in anger.”

  • Noun (figurative): Power or strength; symbolically representing determination or resistance. Example: “The people’s movement had a strong fist against oppression.”

• Verb: To clench or hold something tightly in a fist. Example: “He fist-pumped the air in triumph after winning the race.”

Phrases

• “Fist bump” refers to a greeting or congratulatory gesture where two people touch fists lightly.
• “Make a fist” means to clench one’s hand into a fist.
• “With open arms or with open hearts but with clenched fists” represents a welcoming attitude while being prepared to defend or fight if necessary.

Example Sentences

• Noun: “He raised his fist threateningly towards his opponent.”
• Verb: “Angry protesters fists were raised high in solidarity.”

Synonyms

• Clenched hand
• Closed hand
• Knuckle sandwich (informal, often humorous, referring to a punch)
• Handball (slang, referring to a punch)
• Punch (as a verb)

Antonyms

• Open hand
• Unclenched hand
• Palm up (in terms of posture or gesture)

Related Terms

• Fistfight
• Fisticuffs
• Iron fist (metaphorically referring to strict control or authority)