tenter

/'tentə/

Thân thiện

A weaver hangs wet wool on a tenter to dry.

Definition

1. Noun:
   • A framework for stretching cloth: A wooden frame or structure fitted with hooks or tenterhooks, used in the textile industry to hold cloth taut while it dries or is processed, preventing it from shrinking.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The freshly woven wool was stretched on a tenter to dry evenly.
  • In the old mill, you could see rows of tenters holding lengths of linen.

Advanced Usage

• "To be on tenterhooks": This is the primary idiomatic usage derived from the word. It describes a state of nervous suspense, anxiety, or excited anticipation, as if one were metaphorically stretched on hooks.
  • The audience was on tenterhooks waiting for the final results.

Variants and Related Words

• Tenterhook (n): One of the sharp, hooked nails or the hooks on a tenter frame used to hold the cloth.
  • The cloth was carefully attached to the tenterhooks.

Synonyms

• Frame: A rigid structure that surrounds or supports something.
• Rack: A framework, typically with bars, for holding or storing things.

Related Phrases

• On tenterhooks (idiom): In a state of nervous or anxious suspense.
  • She was on tenterhooks all day before her job interview.

Học thuật

Noun

1. a framework with hooks used for stretching and drying cloth