tack Definition

tack¹
noun

1. A short nail with a sharp point and a broad flat head.
(N Amer)
2. A drawing-pin.
3. A long loose temporary stitch used especially to hold material together while it is being sewn properly.
4. naut.
The direction of a sailing ship which is sailing into the wind at an angle, stated in terms of the side of the sail that the wind is blowing against.
Example: on the starboard tack
5. naut.
A sailing ship's zigzag course formed by sailing with first one side of the sail to the wind and then the other.
6. A direction, course of action or policy.

Example: to try a different tack
7. Stickiness.

verb tacked, tacking

1. To fasten or attach it with tacks.

Form: tack something down (sometimes)
Form: tack something on
2. To sew with long loose temporary stitches.
3. To attach or add it as a supplement.

Form: tack something on (also)
intr
4. naut.
Said of a sailing ship or its crew: to sail into the wind at an angle with first one side of the sail to the wind and then the other, so as to sail in a zigzag course and be able to progress forwards.
5. naut.
To change the tack of (a ship) to the opposite one.
intr
6. To change one's direction, course of action or policy abruptly.

Etymology: 13c as tak a fastening.

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tack²
noun

1. Riding harness, saddle and bridle, etc for a horse.

Etymology: 1930s: shortened from tackle.