WAST TENTERHOOKS Meaning and
Definition
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"Wast tenterhooks" is a slightly archaic expression used to describe a state of extreme anxiety or suspense. The term "wast" is an older variant of the word "were," which means "to be" or "to exist." "Tenterhooks," in this context, refers to the hooks or nails used to stretch and secure cloth on a tenter frame for drying or finishing.
Metaphorically, being on "wast tenterhooks" means to be suspended in a state of heightened anticipation or nervousness, similar to the way cloth is stretched tightly and held in place on tenterhooks. It implies a feeling of being on the edge, waiting anxiously for something to happen or for a decision to be made, causing great discomfort or unease. This phrase is often used in situations where one's emotions or well-being are dependent on an uncertain outcome, leaving them in a state of suspense and vulnerability.
The expression can be seen as a vivid depiction of the mental and emotional strain experienced when waiting anxiously, as though one's mind or emotions are stretched tightly on metaphorical hooks. It conveys a sense of restlessness, uneasiness, and mounting unease, emphasizing the intense anticipation and the discomfort associated with uncertain or potentially distressing circumstances.
Common Misspellings for WAST TENTERHOOKS
- qast tenterhooks
- aast tenterhooks
- sast tenterhooks
- east tenterhooks
- 3ast tenterhooks
- 2ast tenterhooks
- wzst tenterhooks
- wsst tenterhooks
- wwst tenterhooks
- wqst tenterhooks
- waat tenterhooks
- wazt tenterhooks
- waxt tenterhooks
- wadt tenterhooks
- waet tenterhooks
- wawt tenterhooks
- wasr tenterhooks
- wasf tenterhooks
- wasg tenterhooks
- wasy tenterhooks
Etymology of WAST TENTERHOOKS
The phrase "on tenterhooks" means to be in a state of uneasy suspense or anxiety. The term "tenterhooks" originates from the word "tenter", which was a wooden frame used in the textile industry to stretch and dry cloth. The cloth was stretched over the tenterhooks (small hooks on the frame) to prevent it from shrinking or distorting as it dried.
The expression "on tenterhooks" was first recorded in the late 18th century, and it metaphorically compared the feeling of being stretched or suspended, like fabric on tenterhooks, to feeling suspense or anxiety. Over time, the phrase "on tenterhooks" evolved into the more common variant "on pins and needles", but both phrases convey a sense of nervous anticipation.
