taut
What does "taut" mean?
Taut describes something that is pulled or stretched tight, with no slack. Imagine a rope being pulled from both ends until it is perfectly straight and rigid, or a guitar string tuned to the point where it is ready to vibrate at a high pitch. Beyond physical objects, the word is often used to describe a sense of tension or nervousness in a person's body or expression. You might describe someone's facial muscles as taut if they are holding back anger, or a plot of a book as taut if it is tightly constructed with no unnecessary fluff.
"taut" in conversation
Checking gear
Is the rope taut enough for the climb?
Is the rope taut enough for the climb?
Yes, it’s firm. Don't worry, it won't slip.
Yes, it’s firm. Don't worry, it won't slip.
Used to check physical tension for safety.
After a long day
My shoulders feel so taut after sitting at the desk all day.
My shoulders feel so taut after sitting at the desk all day.
You should try some stretches; you’re holding all your stress there.
You should try some stretches; you’re holding all your stress there.
Used to describe physical tightness caused by stress.
"taut" in a sentence
The sails were pulled taut by the strong wind.
The sails were pulled taut by the strong wind.
She kept her expression taut, refusing to show how much the news hurt her.
She kept her expression taut, refusing to show how much the news hurt her.
The thriller is praised for its taut prose and relentless pacing.
The thriller is praised for its taut prose and relentless pacing.
