To be on tenterhooks means to be stretched tight or to be tense while in anticipation or suspense. The phrase is often preceded by "waiting," which emphasizes the quality of anxious …

If you are on tenterhooks, you are very nervous or excited, because you are keen to know what is going to happen. The market was on tenterhooks about the size of the rate cut. `It was a good …

"Tenterhooks" (often mistakenly written or pronounced as "tenderhooks") were the hooks on a frame called a "tenter." They were used to fasten stretched cloth to allow it to dry. With the …

The idiom “on tenterhooks” is a commonly used expression in English language that signifies a state of anxiety, nervousness or anticipation. It is often used to describe situations where …

Mar 28, 2024 · On tenterhooks is the correct expression, denoting a feeling of suspenseful anticipation. The term originates from the textile industry, where metal hooks, called …

TENTERHOOKS definition: 1. worried or nervous about something that is going to happen: 2. worried or nervous about…. Learn more.

On tenterhooks. In a state of agonising suspense, the expression dates from the mid-18th century but is preceded by an earlier expression ‘on tenters’ meaning the same thing that dates from …

The tenterhooks are the metal hooks that held the cloth to the frame. The stretched out cloth remains there until dry, effectively waiting in suspense until it becomes ready for the next stage …

Aug 19, 2024 · The ‘On Tenterhooks’ idiom finds its way into various situations. You can use it while discussing a nail-biting sports match, a gripping novel, or even a thrilling movie. It’s a …

Nov 27, 2023 · The phrase "on tenterhooks" means someone is feeling very nervous and tense while waiting for something to happen. Key aspects of the idiom's meaning: "On tenterhooks" …

Oct 6, 2022 · When someone is 'on tenterhooks' then it means that they can barely wait for something to happen, or they are nervous about the outcome of something that is still to be …

Sep 5, 2022 · To be on tenterhooks is to be strained, waiting impatiently. But what the heck is a tenterhook?

Feb 12, 2000 · Tenter comes from the Latin tendere, to stretch, via a French intermediate. The word has been in the language since the fourteenth century, and on tenters soon after became …

The idiom "on tenterhooks" means being in a state of eager expectation or suspense, often with a degree of anxiety. In Sarah's case, she was eager to know whether she had been successful …

In a state of painful suspense, as in We were on tenterhooks all through the game, hoping against hope that our team would win . This expression alludes to hooks that formerly were used to …

What does the idiom 'On Tenterhooks' mean? With a clear, concise definition and usage examples, discover this idiom's meaning and usage in the English language. Explore with us …