tack
1 of 2verb/tæk/
Forms:tacks,tacking,tacked,tacked
1
to attach by using small pointed nails
transitive- The artist will tack the canvas onto the wooden frame before starting the painting.
- The seamstress will tack the fabric pieces together before sewing the final seam.
- They are tacking the blueprint onto the workbench.
- The gardener has tacked the protective netting for the garden.
2
to change the direction of a sailing vessel by turning the bow through the wind
- During the race, the experienced skipper tacked at just the right moment to gain an advantage over their competitors.
- To navigate through the narrow channel, the captain had to tack several times to maneuver the sailboat safely.
- The novice sailor struggled to tack effectively, often losing speed and control of the boat during the maneuver.
- In gusty conditions, it's important to anticipate when to tack in order to maintain control and stability of the sailboat.
- As the wind picked up, the sailor decided to tack more frequently to maintain optimal speed and direction.
Synonyms:
3
to suddenly change one's policy or attitude, often in response to emerging factors
transitive- Following unexpected scientific findings, the research team chose to tack their hypothesis.
- Realizing the need for agility in the digital landscape, the marketing team tacked their social media strategy.
- Amidst escalating tensions, the CEO decided to tack the company's public relations strategy.
- Facing mounting criticism, the government opted to tack its immigration policy.
- After facing criticism, the celebrity decided to tack their public image to appear more relatable and down-to-earth.
Synonyms:
4
to fasten or attach something using temporary stitches or pins
transitive- She decided to tack the hem of the dress before sewing it permanently.
- I'll tack this patch onto my jeans until I can properly sew it on.
- Before sewing the final seams, she tacked the sleeves onto the bodice of the blouse.
- Before attaching the buttons, she tacked the buttonholes to ensure they matched up perfectly.
- The skilled tailor swiftly tacked the fabric pieces, aligning them precisely to ensure a flawless fit for the bespoke suit.
Synonyms:
5
to append or include additional elements to enhance or modify an existing entity or situation
transitive- The company's marketing team decided to tack an exclusive discount offer onto their latest product launch.
- The chef suggested tacking a side of roasted vegetables onto the main course to make it a more satisfying meal.
- The professor tacked an extra credit assignment onto the syllabus to give students an opportunity to boost their grades.
- The director chose to tack a surprise ending onto the film to captivate the audience.
- To make the gift more special, she decided to tack a handwritten note onto the package.