Emily Dickinson Lexicon

TACK, v.t. [Gr. τασσω, to set, place, ordain, the root of which was ταγω, as appears from its derivatives, ταγεις, ταγμα. Hence Fr. attacher, It. attaccare, Sp. atacar, W. tagu, to stop, Sp. taco, a stopper. See Attach. The primary sense is probably to thrust or send.]

1. To fasten; to attach. In the solemn or grave style, this word now appears ludicrous; as, to get a commendam tacked to their sees. Swift. And tack the center to the sphere. Herbert.
2. To unite by stitching together; as, to tack together the sheets of a book; to tack one piece of cloth to another. [In the familiar style, this word is in good use.]
3. To fasten slightly by nails; as, to tack on a board or shingle.