tackle
UK: ˈtæk.əl | US: ˈtæk.əl
n. equipment or gear used for a specific activity, especially in fishing or sports
vt. to confront or deal with a problem or challenge
vt. (in sports) to intercept or stop an opponent by forcing them to the ground
tackle = tack<fasten> + le<diminutive/frequentative suffix>
- tack (from Middle English tak, meaning "fasten" or "seize")
- le (a frequentative or diminutive suffix in Old English, indicating repetition or small-scale action)
Etymology Origin:
The word "tackle" originated in Middle English from the Old Norse taka (to take or seize), later influenced by Old English tæccan (to fasten or arrange). Initially referring to ropes and gear for sailing (fastening equipment), it evolved to mean general tools or gear (e.g., fishing tackle). The verb sense of "confronting" or "grappling" emerged in the 14th century, later adopted into sports terminology (e.g., football) to describe physically stopping an opponent.
The fisherman packed his tackle before heading to the lake.
She decided to tackle the project with a detailed plan.
The defender managed to tackle the striker before he could shoot.
We need to tackle this issue before it escalates.
His new job involves tackling complex technical problems.