How Do You Spell ON TENTERHOOKS?

Pronunciation: [ˌɒn tˈɛntəhˌʊks] (IPA)

"On tenterhooks" is a phrase used to describe a state of anxious anticipation. The spelling of "tenterhooks" may seem strange, but it comes from the early 16th century practice of stretching wet cloth on a frame (called a "tenter") to dry it out. Hooks were used to hold the cloth in place on the frame, and these hooks were called "tenterhooks". The pronunciation of "tenterhooks" is /ˈtɛntər.hʊks/, with emphasis on the first syllable and a silent "h" in the second syllable.

ON TENTERHOOKS Meaning and Definition

1. "On tenterhooks" is a commonly used idiom that implies a state of deep anticipation, anxiety, or suspense. When someone is said to be "on tenterhooks," it means they are in a state of heightened tension due to the uncertainty of a forthcoming event or outcome. This phrase originates from the textile industry, specifically the process of stretching woven fabric onto a wooden frame called a tenter, in order to prevent it from shrinking during drying. Hooks were attached to the frame to hold the fabric taut, and any changes or movement in the fabric would cause the person working on it to be highly alert and attentive.

   In a figurative sense, being "on tenterhooks" captures the feeling of being stretched tight emotionally, mentally, or physically. It describes a state of extreme unease, restlessness, or nervousness, which could range from minor apprehension to an intense level of anticipation. It often occurs when one is waiting for an important decision, waiting for the outcome of a significant event, or experiencing suspenseful moments that could impact their life or future.

   This expression conveys the idea that the person is metaphorically suspended or fixed in a precarious position, akin to the fabric being stretched on the wooden hooks. The mental and emotional strain associated with being "on tenterhooks" reflects the psychological impact of feeling uncertain, eagerly awaiting the resolution of a situation, or fearing potential negative consequences.

Common Misspellings for ON TENTERHOOKS

• in tenterhooks
• kn tenterhooks
• ln tenterhooks
• pn tenterhooks
• 0n tenterhooks
• 9n tenterhooks
• ob tenterhooks
• om tenterhooks
• oj tenterhooks
• oh tenterhooks
• on renterhooks
• on fenterhooks
• on genterhooks
• on yenterhooks
• on 6enterhooks
• on 5enterhooks
• on twnterhooks
• on tsnterhooks
• on tdnterhooks
• on trnterhooks

Etymology of ON TENTERHOOKS

The phrase "on tenterhooks" can be traced back to the early 19th century in English literature. Its etymology is believed to be derived from the word "tenter", a frame used in the process of making cloth. "Tenterhooks" were the hooks or nails on the tenter frame, which were used to stretch the fabric taut for drying or finishing.

The phrase "on tenterhooks" metaphorically refers to a state of tension, suspense, or anxiety, where one feels stretched or suspended between uncertainty and anticipation. It is commonly used to describe a feeling of uneasiness or anticipation while waiting for something significant to occur. The use of this phrase highlights the idea of being emotionally or mentally stretched, similar to how cloth is stretched and fixed on tenterhooks.

Idioms with the word ON TENTERHOOKS

• keep sm on tenterhooks The idiom "keep someone on tenterhooks" refers to leaving someone in a state of suspense, anticipation, or uncertainty. It means to keep someone waiting eagerly for an outcome or information, often with a sense of anxiety or nervousness.
• keep on tenterhooks The idiom "keep on tenterhooks" means to be in a state of suspense, anxiety, or anticipation about something, often waiting for an important or uncertain event or outcome. It implies feeling both excited and nervous while eagerly awaiting the desired result.
• on tenterhooks Feeling anxious, nervous, or excited while awaiting something important or uncertain; feeling as though one is being held in suspense.