Taut: meaning, definitions and examples

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taut

[tɔːt ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Adjective}

rigid

Stretched or pulled tight; not slack. Taut is often used to describe something that is tightly stretched, such as a rope or a drum skin.

Synonyms

rigid, stretched, tight.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
taut	Commonly used to describe something that is stretched tightly, often referring to muscles, ropes, or expressions on someone's face. The sail was taut in the strong wind His muscles were taut from the workout Her face was taut with worry
tight	Commonly used to indicate something that is firmly in place or closely fitting. Can also describe schedules, budgets, or control. The jar was sealed tight Her dress was very tight We are on a tight schedule The security here is tight
stretched	Usually used to describe something that is pulled to its limits, often referring to materials or a person's capacity or resources. The fabric was stretched thin He felt stretched to his limits after the long project The budget was stretched to cover all expenses
rigid	Used when describing something that is stiff and inflexible, often in terms of physical objects or strict rules. Can have a negative connotation when referring to inflexible attitudes. The metal rod was rigid and wouldn’t bend She had a rigid way of thinking that didn’t allow for other perspectives The rules were rigid and left no room for exceptions

Examples of usage

The taut rope held the weight of the climber.
Her taut muscles showed the intensity of her workout.
The taut skin of the drum produced a clear sound.

^{Context #2 | Adjective}

tense

Emotionally or mentally strained or tense; not relaxed. Taut in this context refers to a person's state of mind or emotions.

Synonyms

strained, stressed, tense.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
taut	Describes something that is tightly drawn, physically or metaphorically, often implying a state of high tension or readiness. The ropes were taut, holding the tent firmly in place. She kept her expression taut, hiding any sign of fear.
stressed	Refers to a person feeling mental or emotional strain or tension, typically due to demanding circumstances. It has a negative connotation. She felt incredibly stressed before her final exams. He looked stressed after working late every day this week.
tense	Describes a situation, atmosphere, or person's body that is tight with anxiety or nervousness. It has a negative connotation. The room was filled with a tense silence before the speech. His muscles were tense with anticipation.
strained	Indicates a situation or relationship that is under stress or pressure, often to the point of breaking or becoming difficult to maintain. Their relationship became strained after the argument. He spoke in a strained voice, trying to hide his frustration.

Examples of usage

Her taut expression hinted at the stress she was under.
The taut atmosphere in the room made it hard to relax.
His taut nerves were evident in his jittery movements.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word 'taut' comes from the Old Norse word 'tǫtt', meaning 'tight' or 'firm'.
It has been used in the English language since the late 14th century, often in relation to ropes or cords.

Literature

In literature, taut writing is often praised for its brevity and clarity, keeping readers engaged without unnecessary fluff.
Famous authors like Ernest Hemingway often utilized taut syntax to enhance the emotional impact of their stories.

Psychology

A taut atmosphere can influence emotions, creating feelings of tension or anticipation in social situations.
In therapy, being aware of tension in the body can help individuals release stress and anxiety.

Science

In physics, tension refers to the force that is transmitted through a string, rope, or any flexible connector when it is pulled tight.
Muscles can also be described as taut when they are contracted, which is critical for activities like lifting or running.

Pop Culture

The phrase 'a taut thriller' is often used to describe movies and books that keep audiences on the edge of their seats with suspense.
In physical fitness, a taut body is often synonymous with being fit and toned, which is frequently portrayed in media.

Translations

Translations of the word "taut" in other languages:

🇵🇹 tenso

🇮🇳 तनावपूर्ण

🇩🇪 straff

🇮🇩 tegang

🇺🇦 напружений

🇵🇱 napięty

🇯🇵 張り詰めた

🇫🇷 tendu

🇪🇸 tenso

🇹🇷 gergin

🇰🇷 팽팽한

🇸🇦 مشحون

🇨🇿 napnutý

🇸🇰 napnutý

🇨🇳 紧张

🇸🇮 napet

🇮🇸 stífur

🇰🇿 ширатылған

🇬🇪 დაძაბული

🇦🇿 gərgin

🇲🇽 tenso

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #15,358, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.

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15355 sever
15356 headway
15357 mammal
15358 taut
15359 conventionally
15360 haunting
15361 jewellery
...