Pinching

The act of squeezing or compressing something, usually between the fingers or other objects. This can be done for a variety of reasons, including causing pain, shaping a material, or taking a small portion. The severity of the action can range from a light squeeze to a forceful grip. Beyond the physical action, 'pinching' can also refer to the act of taking or stealing something in a small, often sneaky way, similar to a light theft. Furthermore, it can also describe the act of restricting or economizing, especially in the context of finances or resources.

Pinching meaning with examples

• The child was playfully pinching her brother's cheek, giggling at his exaggerated reaction. The skin, soft and slightly rosy, gave way to her gentle squeeze. Her mother watched, amused, as the sibling rivalry played out in their innocent antics. It was a moment of lighthearted interaction between the two, unmarred by any real discomfort.
• The sculptor meticulously pinched the clay, shaping it into delicate petals. Her fingers moved with practiced ease, coaxing the form into existence. Each careful pinch added definition to the flower, its form gradually emerging under her creative touch. The process required patience and a delicate touch to avoid damaging the fragile material.
• The shopkeeper, noticing a suspicious movement, saw the boy was pinching a candy bar from the shelf. He quickly intervened, confronting the boy and explaining the consequences of stealing. It was a lesson learned, a consequence of greed, that prevented a minor incident from becoming a major problem.
• Faced with rising costs, the family had to start pinching pennies to make ends meet. They cut back on non-essential expenses and looked for ways to save on their grocery bill. This lifestyle required careful budgeting and financial planning. Their frugality enabled them to maintain their financial security during challenging economic times.