Meaning & Definition of word "Tack"

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    Tack

    /tæk/

    noun:

    • 1. A small sharp nail with a flat head, used for fastening things together.
      • Example: She used a tack to pin the notice to the bulletin board.
    • 2. A course or direction taken.
      • Example: The team decided to change their tack and approach the problem differently.

    verb:

    • 1. To fasten or attach something using tacks.
      • Example: He tacked the poster to the wall with several small tacks.
    • 2. To change direction, especially in sailing.
      • Example: The captain tacked the ship to catch the wind more effectively.

    Etymology

    Middle English 'tacke', of unknown origin.

    Common Phrases and Expressions

    get on the right tack:

    To start doing something correctly.

    tack on:

    To add something extra.

    take a different tack:

    To change the approach one is taking.

    Related Words

    tacking:

    The process of fastening with tacks.

    untack:

    To remove or take out tacks.

    Slang Meanings of tack

    Meaning: To tack on means to add something, often without giving much thought.

    Example Sentence: I just tacked on a few extra slides in the presentation.

    Meaning: Tack may also refer to changing one's approach in informal contexts.

    Example Sentence: When the project stalled, we decided to tack and try a new strategy.