hamstring
UK[ˈhæmstrɪŋ]US[ˈhæmstrɪŋ]
n
any of the five tendons at the back of the human knee.
n
the large tendon at the back of the hind leg of a quadruped.
v
to cripple by cutting the hamstring tendons.
v
to severely restrict the efficiency or power of someone or something.
Morpheme Breakdown
ham
string
ham
back of the knee
string
tendon
Etymology
the word 'hamstring' is a transparent compound from old english anatomy. the first element, 'ham', referred specifically to the hollow or bend at the back of the knee. the second element, 'string', was a common term for a sinew or tendon. thus, the literal meaning is "the tendon of the knee-hollow." this anatomical term was later verbed in the 17th century, taking on the figurative sense of crippling or disabling, first literally by severing the tendon, and then metaphorically by impairing any form of action or progress.
Analysis
Structure: ham (back of the knee) + string (tendon)
ham originates from old english 'hamm', meaning the hollow or bend of the knee. string originates from old english 'streng', meaning a line, cord, or tendon.
Examples
he pulled a hamstring during the sprint and had to leave the game.
the coach emphasized exercises to strengthen the hamstrings.
the new regulations could hamstring the company's ability to innovate.