tack
1tack
verb \ˈtak\Definition of TACK
transitive verb
2
: to join in a slight or hasty manner
3
a : to add as a supplement b : to add (a rider) to a parliamentary bill
4
: to change the direction of (a sailing ship) when sailing close-hauled by turning the bow to the wind and shifting the sails so as to fall off on the other side at about the same angle as before
intransitive verb
1
a : to tack a sailing ship b of a ship : to change to an opposite tack by turning the bow to the wind c : to follow a course against the wind by a series of tacks
2
a : to follow a zigzag course b : to modify one's policy or attitude abruptly
— tack·er noun
Examples of TACK
- She tacked a poster on the wall.
- A message was tacked to the board.
- We had to tack repeatedly as we sailed toward the harbor.
Origin of TACK
Middle English takken, from tak
First Known Use: 14th century
2tack
nounDefinition of TACK
1
: a small short sharp-pointed nail usually having a broad flat head
2
a : the direction of a ship with respect to the trim of her sails <starboard tack> b : the run of a sailing ship on one tack c : a change when close-hauled from the starboard to the port tack or vice versa d : a zigzag movement on land e : a course or method of action; especially : one sharply divergent from that previously followed
3
: any of various usually temporary stitches
4
: the lower forward corner of a fore-and-aft sail
5
: a sticky or adhesive quality or condition
Origin of TACK
Middle English tak fastener, rope tying down the windward corner of a sail, from Middle French (Norman dialect) taque; akin to Middle Dutch tac sharp point
First Known Use: 1574
3tack
noun4tack
nounDefinition of TACK
: stable gear; especially : articles of harness (as saddle and bridle) for use on a saddle horse
Origin of TACK
perhaps short for tackle
First Known Use: 1924
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