Meaning & Definition of word "Hamstring"

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.