Definition of stanch

• v. t. - To stop the flowing of, as blood; to check; also, to stop the flowing of blood from; as, to stanch a wound.
• v. t. - To extinguish; to quench, as fire or thirst.
• v. i. - To cease, as the flowing of blood.
• n. - That which stanches or checks.
• n. - A flood gate by which water is accumulated, for floating a boat over a shallow part of a stream by its release.
• v. t. - Strong and tight; sound; firm; as, a stanch ship.
• v. t. - Firm in principle; constant and zealous; loyal; hearty; steady; steadfast; as, a stanch churchman; a stanch friend or adherent.
• v. t. - Close; secret; private.
• v. t. - To prop; to make stanch, or strong.