tacking
/ˈtækɪŋ/
VERB
1. Fastening or attaching something
The act of securing or attaching something to another object or surface, often with a tack, nail, pin, or similar fastener.
1.1. Attaching or securing objects
The act of fastening materials or objects together or to a surface so that they remain in place.
Synonyms
Antonyms
- detaching
- disconnecting
- separating
- unfastening
- unfixing
- unhooking
Examples
- She was tacking the fabric to the wooden frame before beginning the project.
Related Words
1.2. Temporarily stitching fabric
The act of joining pieces of cloth with loose, temporary stitches to hold them in position before permanent sewing.
Synonyms
- basting
- stitching
- sewing
Examples
- She was tacking the two pieces of fabric together before sewing the final seam.
Related Words
- hemming
- seaming
- threading
- dressmaking
1.3. Adding something as an extra
The act of adding or attaching an additional item, condition, or detail to something that already exists.
Synonyms
- adding
- appending
- attaching
- annexing
- supplementing
Examples
- The committee was tacking an additional condition onto the agreement.
Related Words
- including
- incorporating
- combining
- joining
1.4. Equipping a horse
The act of putting a saddle, bridle, and other riding equipment on a horse in preparation for riding.
Synonyms
- saddling
- harnessing
- equipping
Examples
- The stable hands were tacking up the horses before the morning ride.
Related Words
- bridling
- mounting
- riding
VERB
2. Changing direction while sailing
The act of maneuvering a sailing vessel so that its bow turns through the wind, causing the wind to shift from one side of the vessel to the other.
2.1. Sailing maneuver through the wind
The maneuver in which a sailing vessel turns its bow through the wind to change direction while continuing to sail.
Synonyms
- turning
- veering
- changing course
Examples
- The sailor skillfully navigated the turbulent waters by constantly tacking.
- She deftly maneuvered the sailboat, smoothly tacking against the changing winds.
Related Words
- gybing
- steering
- navigating
- maneuvering
NOUN
3. Temporary stitches in sewing
Loose stitches used in dressmaking to hold pieces of fabric temporarily in position.
3.1. Temporary sewing stitches
Loose provisional stitches used to keep fabric pieces aligned before they are permanently sewn together.
Synonyms
- basting
- temporary stitches
- loose stitches
Related Words
- seam
- stitching
- sewing
- thread