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What does on tenterhooks mean?

Looking for the meaning or definition of the word on tenterhooks? Here's what it means.

Prepositional phrase
  1. (idiomatic) In a state of suspense or apprehension.
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Examples
When the latest batch of fresh-faced first years arrives, I shall wait on tenterhooks for their response to new, improved Toryism.
Army chiefs were on tenterhooks today ahead of a major announcement on the future of an historic West Yorkshire regiment.
Project partners were on tenterhooks over the last few months, uncertain as to whether ospreys would return this spring.
Meanwhile, kidnappers threatening to kill a Filipino and two Bulgarians seized in Iraq kept their families on tenterhooks.
The elimination final started on tenterhooks for both sides as the scoring was slow and the passages of play at times cumbersome.
They go forward on tenterhooks,seeking to grasp all that life offers, and end up without making a choice and find themselves alone.

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