Tacked Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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tacked
[tækt ]
Definitions
attach something
To tack means to attach or fix something in place, usually with a tack or similar fastener. It can refer to both physical attachment as well as figurative connections in conversation or arguments.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- She tacked the poster to the wall.
- He tacked the notes onto the board.
- They tacked the roof down before the storm hit.
change direction
In sailing, to tack means to change the direction of a boat by turning the bow into the wind, allowing it to sail at an angle to the wind.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- The captain decided to tack to avoid the storm.
- We need to tack to make progress against the gusting winds.
- By tacking efficiently, the race team gained an advantage.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Nautical Terms
- In sailing, 'tacking' refers to maneuvering a boat by turning the bow into the wind, allowing the sails to change direction.
- This term illustrates the importance of fastening sails securely to harness the wind effectively.
- Sailors use 'tack' as both a noun and a verb to describe the angle of sailing against the wind.
Everyday Usage
- The term is common in home improvement, where items such as pictures or posters are tacked to walls using pushpins or tacks.
- In sports, players may execute a 'tacked' strategy to secure a win or to fortify their position.
- Educators often use the term 'tacked on' for additional information or materials added to enhance learning.
Cultural References
- In literature, 'tacked' is often used metaphorically to describe how characters adjust or attach new ideas after experiences.
- Musical arrangements might have elements that are 'tacked' together to create a cohesive sound or theme in a song.
- Fashion involves 'tacking' pieces of fabric to test designs before officially sewing them together.
Psychology
- In cognitive psychology, 'tacking' can refer to mentally fastening new ideas to existing knowledge for better understanding.
- Therapists may encourage clients to 'tack down' their thoughts to identify patterns and improve emotional stability.
- The process of securely 'tacking' memories helps strengthen retrieval pathways in the brain.
Origin of 'tacked'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'tack' originally comes from Middle English, where it meant 'to fasten' or 'to attach'.
- Before its modern usage, it had roots in Old Norse, linked to a word meaning 'to fix’ or ‘to place firmly'.
- The figurative use of 'tacked' to mean 'added on' also emerged in the early 20th century.
The word 'tack' originates from the early Middle Ages, derived from the Old Norse word 'takka', meaning 'to fasten'. Its use has evolved over the centuries, with the term becoming prominent in various trades such as woodworking and textile crafting, where it denotes fixing items securely. In maritime language, 'tack' reflects the angular maneuvering of sailing vessels against the wind. The versatility of the term has allowed it to maintain relevance in both casual and technical contexts, embodying the idea of attachment as well as directional change.