Taut
Adjective
Definition: Stretched or pulled tight; not slack.
Synonyms: Tight, Tense, Stretched
Antonyms: Loose, Slack, Relaxed
Examples:
- The rope was taut and secured to the post.
- His muscles were taut from hours of exercise.
Mnemonics:
- Think of a taut rope, with no slack or looseness.
- Picture a taut face showing signs of stress or tension.
Etymology:
Origin:
Old English 'tahte', past tense of 'tēon' (to pull, drag, or draw).
Historical Usage:The word has been used since Old English and has retained its meaning of being tightly stretched over time.
Related Idioms:
Idiom:
"On tenterhooks"
Explanation:Feeling anxious or excited, as if one is being stretched or pulled tightly.
Misconceptions:
Misconception:
Confusing 'taut' with 'taught' or 'tautology'.
Explanation:'Taut' refers to something being tight or stretched, while 'taught' is the past tense of 'teach', and 'tautology' refers to unnecessary redundancy.