Tenterhooks meaning

Tenterhooks refers to a state of anxious anticipation or tension, with the word "hooks" emphasizing the discomfort or unease of the situation.


Tenterhooks definitions

Word backwards skoohretnet
Part of speech The word "tenterhooks" is a noun.
Syllabic division ten-ter-hooks
Plural The plural of the word tenterhook is tenterhooks.
Total letters 11
Vogais (2) e,o
Consonants (6) t,n,r,h,k,s

Tenterhooks are small metal hooks used for stretching and securing cloth or leather during the drying process. They are typically attached to a wooden frame called a tenter, hence the name tenterhooks.

Tenterhooks are commonly used in textile industries to ensure that the fabric maintains its shape and size as it dries. By securely fastening the fabric onto the tenterhooks, it prevents any shrinkage or distortion that may occur during the drying process.

History of Tenterhooks

The use of tenterhooks dates back to the 14th century in Europe when cloth production was a significant industry. Tenterhooks were essential tools in the textile manufacturing process, helping to maintain the quality and consistency of the fabric.

How Tenterhooks Work

When fabric is wet, it tends to shrink as it dries. By placing the fabric on a tenter frame and securing it with tenterhooks, the fabric can be stretched to its desired dimensions. As the fabric dries, it retains its shape and size, ensuring a consistent final product.

Modern Use of Tenterhooks

While the textile industry has evolved over the centuries, tenterhooks are still widely used today in the manufacturing of various fabrics. Whether it's cotton, wool, or synthetic materials, tenterhooks play a crucial role in ensuring the quality of the final product.

Tenterhooks may seem like simple tools, but their importance in the textile industry cannot be understated. By using tenterhooks, manufacturers can guarantee that their fabrics are of the highest quality and meet the desired specifications.

Next time you see a piece of fabric that looks perfectly formed and sized, remember that it might have been stretched and secured with the help of tenterhooks during the drying process.


Tenterhooks Examples

  1. She was on tenterhooks waiting for the results of her exam.
  2. The suspenseful movie had her on tenterhooks until the very end.
  3. His upcoming job interview had him on tenterhooks all week.
  4. The team was on tenterhooks waiting to hear if they made it to the finals.
  5. The author was on tenterhooks waiting for the reviews of her new book.
  6. The weather forecast had the event planner on tenterhooks about possible rain.
  7. After submitting her proposal, she was on tenterhooks waiting for the client's response.
  8. The athlete was on tenterhooks as she waited for the results of the drug test.
  9. The parents were on tenterhooks as they watched their child perform in the school play.
  10. The investor was on tenterhooks during the volatile stock market fluctuations.


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  • Updated 08/04/2024 - 15:01:06