Question:
"On tenterhooks" means:
"On tenterhooks" means:
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Associate the word "hooks" in "tenterhooks" with being suspended in mid-air in an uncomfortable, tense state.
This vivid image of physical tension translates directly to the emotional state of being highly anxious or in suspense.
This vivid image of physical tension translates directly to the emotional state of being highly anxious or in suspense.
Updated On: Jun 3, 2026
- Nervous
- Relaxed
- Anxious
- Excited with worry
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The Correct Option is C
Solution and Explanation
Step 1: Understanding the Question:
The objective is to find the correct lexical meaning of the idiomatic phrase "on tenterhooks".
We need to analyze the emotional state described by this expression.
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
$\bullet$ Origin of the Phrase: Historically, a "tenter" was a wooden frame used in fabric manufacturing to stretch and dry newly woven woolen cloth. The cloth was held in place by sharp, hooked nails called "tenterhooks". The fabric was stretched very tightly to prevent shrinkage.
$\bullet$ Figurative Application: Being "on tenterhooks" metaphorically refers to a person being stretched tight with suspense, anticipation, or worry, mirroring the physical tension of the cloth on the frame.
$\bullet$ Analyzing Option (A): "Nervous" is a close feeling, but it is a general state of apprehension that does not fully capture the specific element of painful suspense.
$\bullet$ Analyzing Option (B): "Relaxed" is the exact antonym of this phrase, as it denotes a complete absence of tension or worry.
$\bullet$ Analyzing Option (C): "Anxious" is the most direct and accurate synonym because being on tenterhooks represents an intense, painful state of anxiety and suspense while waiting for an outcome.
$\bullet$ Analyzing Option (D): "Excited with worry" is an informal description of mixed feelings, but "anxious" is the standard, formal definition of the idiom.
Step 3: Final Answer:
The most precise definition of being "on tenterhooks" is (C) Anxious.
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