tenterhooks

[US]/'tɛntɚhʊks/
Frequency: Very High

Translation

n. a state of uneasiness or suspense, as if on sharp hooks; in a state of anxious suspense

Phrases & Collocations

on tenterhooks

Real-world Examples

It's a bit like on tenterhooks, right? on edge.

Source: Tips for IELTS Speaking.

The world is now on tenterhooks to see how Iran retaliates.

Source: The Chronicles of Novel Events

The BBC's Economics expert Paul Mason explains that the Eurozone is still on tenterhooks.

Source: BBC Listening Collection October 2016

Harry had his wand raised, waiting on tenterhooks to repel a jinx that seemed unlikely ever to come.

Source: Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince

I'm on bail and he's on tenterhooks, until they decide if they can make a case against either of us.

Source: Downton Abbey (Audio Version) Season 6

I've been on tenterhooks for the final episode of Succession.

Source: Financial Times Podcast

Everyone is kind of on tenterhooks now waiting, what's gonna happen?

Source: Financial Times Podcast

Before the end of the land tenure, the tepid householder was on tenterhooks.

Source: Pan Pan

You're just on tenterhooks waiting around for the results to arrive and you're psyching yourself out.

Source: 2011 ESLPod

If you can tell an Oasis from a Blur. you should be on tenterhooks this evening.

Source: Rock documentary

Popular Words

Explore frequently searched vocabulary

Download App to Unlock Full Content

Want to learn vocabulary more efficiently? Download the DictoGo app and enjoy more vocabulary memorization and review features!

Download DictoGo Now