WordReference Random House Learner's Dictionary of American English © 2026
taut /tɔt/USA pronunciation
adj., -er, -est.
taut•ness, n. [uncountable]
WordReference Random House Unabridged Dictionary of American English © 2026- tightly drawn;
tense;
not slack:His muscles were taut as he strained to lift the weights. - emotionally tense:taut nerves.
taut•ness, n. [uncountable]
taut (tôt),USA pronunciation
adj., -er, -est.
taut′ly, adv.
taut′ness, n.
- tightly drawn;
tense;
not slack. - emotionally or mentally strained or tense:taut nerves.
- in good order or condition;
tidy;
neat.
- 1275–1325; earlier taught, Middle English tought; akin to tow1
taut′ness, n.
- 3. trim, trig, spruce, smart.