to be on the tenter-hooks

1 definition found

to be on the tenter-hooks - Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48 :

  Tenter \Ten"ter\, n. [OE. tenture, tentoure, OF. tenture a
     stretching, spreading, F. tenture hangings, tapestry, from L.
     tendere, tentum, to stretch. See Tend to move.]
     A machine or frame for stretching cloth by means of hooks,
     called tenter-hooks, so that it may dry even and square.
     [1913 Webster]
  
     Tenter ground, a place where tenters are erected.
  
     Tenter-hook, a sharp, hooked nail used for fastening cloth
        on a tenter.
  
     To be on the tenters, To be on the tenter-hooks or To be on tenterhooks
     , to be on the stretch; to be in distress,
        uneasiness, or suspense. --Hudibras.
        [1913 Webster +PJC]