hamstring
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /ˈhæmstrɪŋ/
KK: /ˈhæmstrɪŋ/
noun
Definition
A group of muscles and tendons located at the back of the thigh that help in bending the knee and moving the leg.
Example
He pulled his hamstring while running during the game.
Conversation
I pulled my hamstring during the game yesterday.
Ouch, that sounds painful! How are you feeling now?
It's getting better, but I need to rest and stretch my hamstring more.
Good idea! Just take it easy and let it heal properly.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
tendon
muscle
ligament
Antonyms
joint
bone
cartilage
transitive verb
Definition
To severely damage or weaken someone or something, making it less effective or unable to function properly.
Example
The new regulations hamstring the company's ability to innovate and grow.
Tense Forms
Past: hamstrung
Past Participle: hamstrung
Conversation
I heard that new policy might hamstring our project timeline.
Really? That's frustrating!
Yeah, it seems like it could really limit what we can do.
Root Explanation
Hamstring → The word is formed from "ham" (from Old English *ham*, meaning the back of the knee) and "string" (from Old English *streng*, meaning a cord or line). The term refers to the tendons at the back of the knee, which are string-like in appearance and connect the muscles to the bones.
Memory Tip
Think of the 'back of the knee' ('ham') and the 'cord' ('string') that connects muscles to bones — that's what hamstring refers to.
Visually Confused Words
hempstring
hastings
astringe
thumbstring
string
heartstring