English-English Dictionary

Meaning of the word hamstring in English

What does hamstring mean in English? Explore the meaning, pronunciation, and specific usage of this word with Lingoland.

hamstring

US /ˈhæm.strɪŋ/
UK /ˈhæm.strɪŋ/
"hamstring" picture

Noun

any of five tendons at the back of the human knee, or (in quadrupeds) the great tendon at the back of the hock.

Example:
•
He pulled a hamstring during the sprint.
•
The athlete suffered a severe hamstring injury.
Synonym:
popliteal tendon thigh tendon

Verb

1.

to cripple (a person or animal) by severing the hamstrings.

Example:
•
The rebels would often hamstring their captives to prevent escape.
•
The ancient practice of hamstringing horses was used to prevent them from being ridden.
Synonym:
cripple disable maim incapacitate hobble
2.

to severely restrict the efficiency or effectiveness of (a person or plan).

Example:
•
Lack of funding will hamstring the research project.
•
Bureaucracy tends to hamstring innovation.
Synonym:
hinder impede cripple disable thwart frustrate obstruct curb restrict handicap
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