tack
UK: tæk | US: tæk
n. a small, sharp nail with a flat head
n. a course of action or direction, especially in sailing
vt. to fasten or attach lightly with a tack
vt. to change the direction of a sailboat by turning its bow into the wind
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The word "tack" originates from Middle English tak, meaning "nail" or "fastening," likely derived from Old Norse takk (a spike or nail). Its nautical sense emerged in the 17th century, metaphorically extending the idea of "fixing direction" (like pinning a course). The word’s simplicity reflects its Germanic roots, retaining a compact form without clear subdivisions.
She used a tack to pin the poster to the wall.
The sailor decided to change tack to avoid the storm.
He carefully tacked the fabric to the sewing board.
The ship’s crew adjusted their tack to catch the wind.
Loose tacks on the floor can be a hazard.