1. a state of anxious suspense or eager anticipation
Usage: always used in the phrase ‘on tenterhooks’

Examples

• I was on tenterhooks waiting for the test results.
• The whole family was on tenterhooks during the job interview.
• She kept us on tenterhooks until she finally announced her decision.
• The suspenseful movie had the audience on tenterhooks.
• We were on tenterhooks wondering if the flight would be delayed.
• The close game kept fans on tenterhooks until the final whistle.