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