1 B2 neutral
To fasten something to a surface using small nails, tacks, or staples so it lies flat
"She tacked down the corners of the carpet to stop people from tripping over them."
separable
tack down
B2 neutral separable transitive
To secure something flat to a surface using tacks, staples, or similar small fasteners
In plain English
Use small nails or pins to hold something flat against a surface so it doesn't move
What does "tack down" mean?
2 meanings, ordered from most common to least. Color-coded by CEFR level.
2 C1 neutral
(Sewing) To temporarily stitch or baste a piece of fabric to keep it in place before the final sewing
"Tack down the lining before you sew the hem so it doesn't shift."
separable
Literal vs figurative
Words literally mean
To use tacks (small nails) to push something down flat — entirely transparent.
Actually means
Use small nails or pins to hold something flat against a surface so it doesn't move
Usage tip
Common in home improvement, upholstery, sewing, and carpentry contexts. 'Tacking down' carpet edges and fabric hems are among the most frequent uses.
Words that pair with "tack down"
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
carpet fabric trim edge felt vinyl
How to conjugate "tack down"
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
Base
tack down
I/you/we/they
3rd person
tacks down
he/she/it
Past simple
tacked down
yesterday
Past participle
tacked down
have + pp
-ing form
tacking down
continuous
Hear "tack down" in the wild
Listen to native speakers using "tack down" in real YouTube videos — click a clip to watch it on Looplines.
Keep exploring
Jump to every phrasal verb built on the same verb, particle, or level.