Meaning & Definition of word "Tack"

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.