- 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.