hamstring
1 synonyms and 0 antonyms for hamstring, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Noun — Any of the large tendons or muscles at the back of the thigh, behind the knee.
Synonyms
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
How to use hamstring
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
Etymology
From ham ("back of the knee") + string, originally referring literally to cutting the tendon of a horse or animal to disable it — later extended figuratively.
Full origin of hamstring →Frequently asked questions
What does “hamstring” mean?
The word “hamstring” means any of the large tendons or muscles at the back of the thigh, behind the knee. In plain terms, the muscle/tendon at the back of your thigh, or (as a verb) to cripple someone's ability to act.
How do you pronounce “hamstring”?
“Hamstring” is pronounced HAMST-rihng (/ˈhæmstɹɪŋ/ in IPA).
How do you use “hamstring” in a sentence?
Here is “hamstring” used in a sentence: “The sprinter pulled up clutching his hamstring.”
What part of speech is “hamstring”?
Depending on how it is used, “hamstring” can be a noun and a verb.
How many meanings does “hamstring” have?
“Hamstring” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: any of the large tendons or muscles at the back of the thigh, behind the knee.