Phrase guide

clutch one's pearls

verb · 1 senses · updated from the 2026-07-25 local source snapshot

Definitions and examples are grouped by meaning. Pronunciation, history, word forms, translations, descendants, synonyms, antonyms, derived terms, and related words appear whenever the source provides them.

Sound

Pronunciation

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No pronunciation record was provided for this word.

1

verb

Meaning 1

To react with consternation to someone or something that violates the usual norms.

Definition source: English Wiktionary via Wiktextract

No example sentence was provided for this meaning.

Meaning relationships

Synonyms: none provided

Antonyms: none provided

History

Etymology

From the stereotype of a woman who wears pearls and is easily offended.

Across languages

Translations

1 source translations are retained for this English entry.

  • Swedish: förfasa — react with consternation