on tenterhooks

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/ɒn ˈten.tə.hʊks/
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Anxiously or excitedly waiting to learn what will happen.
Practice using on tenterhooks in conversation until it feels natural

Examples

  • We were on tenterhooks awaiting the verdict.
  • The audience sat on tenterhooks through the final scene.
  • I am on tenterhooks about the interview.
  • She was on tenterhooks until the test results came.
  • They remained on tenterhooks while the votes were counted.

Similar words

on pins and needles
in suspense
on edge

Meanings

In tense anticipation

anticipation
neutral
Describes the suspense felt while awaiting an important result or event.

Examples

  • We were on tenterhooks awaiting the verdict.
  • She was on tenterhooks until the test results came.
  • The audience sat on tenterhooks through the final scene.
  • I am on tenterhooks about the interview.
  • They remained on tenterhooks while the votes were counted.

Similar words

on edge
in suspense
on pins and needles

Etymology

Tenterhooks held cloth stretched on a frame called a tenter during drying.

FAQ

What does on tenterhooks mean?

On tenterhooks means anxiously awaiting an outcome.

When is on tenterhooks used?

It is used while waiting for news, a result, or a tense scene to end.

How does on tenterhooks differ from nervous?

Nervous is broad; on tenterhooks specifically involves waiting.

How is on tenterhooks used in a sentence?

We were on tenterhooks awaiting the verdict.

Is on tenterhooks formal?

No, it is a common idiom rather than a formal term.

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