Tackle

Definition

Tackle refers to engaging with a task or problem in a determined or vigorous manner. In a sporting context, it signifies the act of stopping an opponent by grabbing them and bringing them to the ground. It is also a term used for the equipment required for a task or sport, particularly fishing gear.

Parts of Speech

• Verb
• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈtækəl/
• Respelling: TAK-uhl (with "TAK" as in "tack" and "uhl" as in "huddle")

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈtækəl/
• Respelling: TAK-uhl (similar to American English, with "TAK" as in "tack" and "uhl" like in "huddle")

In both dialects, "tackle" is pronounced with the primary stress on the first syllable, "TAK." The pronunciation of "tackle" is consistent between American and British English, with the ending "uhl" sound similar to that in "huddle."

Etymology

The term "tackle" stems from Middle English "takel," which refers to rigging or equipment, particularly of a ship, derived from Middle Low German "takel," meaning the same.

Derivatives

• Tackler (noun)
• Tackling (noun, verb)
• Untackle (verb)
• Retackle (verb)
• Overtackle (verb)

Synonyms

• Confront
• Engage
• Grapple

Antonyms

• Avoid
• Evade
• Ignore

Usage

The word "tackle" can be used in various domains including sports, problem-solving, and fishing, signifying either an action of dealing with something or someone, or referring to the equipment used in fishing or other activities.

Related Terms

• Equipment
• Rigging
• Gear

Detailed Definition

Verb

• General Usage: To confront or take on a challenge or task.
• Example: The team is ready to tackle the new project.

• Sporting Usage: To stop an opponent by grabbing them and bringing them to the ground.
• Example: The player was able to tackle his opponent before he reached the end zone.

• Maintenance Usage: To deal with or undertake the repairing or handling of equipment.
• Example: He decided to tackle the plumbing issues in his house over the weekend.

Noun

• General Usage: The equipment required for a specific activity, particularly referring to fishing gear.
• Example: He purchased some new fishing tackle before the trip.

• Sporting Usage: The act of stopping an opponent in a sport such as football.
• Example: The defender made a crucial tackle to stop the forward from scoring.