tenterhook
Frame-stretching nail
A tenterhook is a sharp hooked nail used to stretch cloth on a frame (a tenter) while it dries.
The phrase on tenterhooks means in a state of anxious suspense or nervous anticipation—stretched tight like fabric awaiting its fate: We were on tenterhooks waiting for the test results.
State of awaiting something
- suspenseAnxious uncertainty about outcomes
- uncertaintyState of being unsure
- apprehensionNervous anticipation of trouble
- anxietyPersistent apprehensive distress
waiting · expectancy · nervousness · unease · dread · trepidation · edginess · restlessness
Stretched under tension
- stretchedPulled to lengthen
- strainedUnder uncomfortable tension
- tightFirmly stretched or fitting
- tensionStretched or strained state
pull · stress · distension · elongation · extension · elasticity · rack · frame
anticipation
State of awaiting something
- suspenseAnxious uncertainty about outcomes
- uncertaintyState of being unsure
- apprehensionNervous anticipation of trouble
anxiety · waiting · expectancy · nervousness · unease · dread · trepidation · edginess · restlessness · jitters
taut
Stretched under tension
tension · pull · stress · distension · elongation · extension · elasticity · rack · frame · drying
pin
Pointed metal fastener
stretch · anchor · grip · hold · clasp · sharp · pointed · metal · cloth · fabric
tenterhookat ease
Relaxed, not tense
relaxed · calm · tranquil · serene · untroubled
tenterhookrelease mechanism
Device that unlocks restraint
slack · loosener · unhook · detacher · straight pin
tenterhookease
Lack of strain
calm · relaxation · tranquility · composure · serenity
- on tenterhooksNervously awaiting an outcome