Tacket is a noun that refers to a small nail or tack used in upholstery. The spelling of tacket can be misleading due to the presence of the silent -c-. In IPA phonetic transcription, tacket is pronounced ["tækɪt"], with stress on the first syllable. The sound of the t in tacket is a voiceless alveolar stop, followed by the vowel "æ" as in "cat". The final syllable contains a voiceless alveolar plosive "t" and "it" pronounced as "it" in "sit."
Tacket is a noun with multiple definitions depending on its usage and historical context. In its primary definition, tacket refers to a small nail or tack with a wide, flat head. These tacks were traditionally used to fasten fabrics, carpets, or other materials to a surface, often a wall or wooden panel. They were frequently employed during the 16th to 18th centuries for holding tapestries or textile hangings in place. The wide head of the tacket would prevent the fabric from slipping or tearing.
In a secondary sense, tacket can also refer to a small metal fastening or securing device used in leatherwork or bookbinding. These small metal tacks or nails would be used to attach leather parts together or to secure the pages of a book to its cover.
Given its historical usage and context, tacket has become somewhat archaic and is rarely encountered in everyday language. However, it still holds relevance for historians, craftsmen, or individuals studying and working with traditional textiles, leatherwork, or bookbinding techniques.
A small short nail with a thick head.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "tacket" can be traced back to Middle English, where it was originally spelled as "takket". It derives from the Old Norse word "taka", which means "to take" or "to fasten". It was primarily used to refer to a small nail or tack used for fastening or joining things together. Over time, the spelling of the word changed to "tacket", and it has continued to be used in this form.