Meaning & Definition of word "Hamstring"
to
Hamstring
/ˈhæm.strɪŋ/
noun:
- 1. Either of two groups of muscles at the back of the thigh that function to flex the knee
- Example: He strained his hamstring during the soccer match and had to leave the field.
- 2. The tendons behind the knee
- Example: She felt a sharp pain in her hamstring after running too quickly.
verb:
- 1. To cripple or disable by cutting the hamstring muscle
- Example: The villain tried to hamstring the hero to prevent him from escaping.
- 2. To hinder or obstruct the effectiveness of something
- Example: The new regulations may hamstring the company's ability to innovate.
Etymology
Derived from Middle English 'ham' (the back of the knee) + 'string' (referring to the tendons).
Common Phrases and Expressions
hamstring injury:
An injury to the muscles or tendons at the back of the thigh.
hamstring one's efforts:
To weaken or obstruct someone's efforts.
Related Words
tendon:
A flexible but inelastic cord of strong fibrous collagen tissue attaching a muscle to a bone.
ligament:
A short band of tough, flexible tissue that connects two bones or cartilages or holds together a joint.
Slang Meanings of hamstring
Meaning: To hold back or limit in performance.
Example Sentence: Working those long hours really hamstrings my ability to practice.
Meaning: Referring to something that is restricting or annoying.
Example Sentence: Those new policies are just hamstringing the creativity of the team.