Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
be on tenterhooks
Idiomatic expression
/bi ɒn ˈtɛntərhʊks/
Definition
To be in a state of anxious suspense or nervous anticipation.
Examples
- She was on tenterhooks while waiting for the exam results.
- The team was on tenterhooks during the final moments of the game.
- He was on tenterhooks about whether she would accept his proposal.
Meaning
The phrase ‘be on tenterhooks’ refers to a feeling of being very nervous or worried about something that is about to happen.
Synonyms
- anxious
- worried
- nervous
- on edge
- in suspense
