hamstring
hamstring Lexical Profile
hamstring Game Scores & Validity
• noun
Any of the prominent tendons located at the back of the human knee, or the group of three posterior thigh muscles (semitendinosus, semimembranosus, and biceps femoris) that flex the knee and extend the hip.
"The sprinter had to withdraw from the championship race after pulling his left hamstring during warm-ups."
The large tendon at the back of the hock in the hind leg of a four-footed mammal.
"The veterinarian carefully examined the horse's hind leg to ensure the hamstring had not been torn."
• verb
To severely restrict, cripple, or破坏 the efficiency, power, or effectiveness of a person, organization, or endeavor.
"Severe budget cuts threaten to hamstring the research department just as the clinical trials are beginning."
To disable or lame a person or animal by cutting or severely injuring the tendons at the back of the knee or hock.
"Predators on the savanna often attempt to hamstring large prey to prevent them from fleeing."
Word Nuance & Usage
The standard past tense and past participle of the verb is the irregular form 'hamstrung'; the regularized form 'hamstringed' is widely considered nonstandard.
Word Origin & Etymology
Coined in the 16th century as a compound of 'ham' (from Old English 'hamm', meaning the hollow or bend at the back of the knee) and 'string' (used in the sense of a tendon or sinew).