taut
(also figuratively) Under tension, like a stretched bowstring, rope, or sail; tight.
(of a body, muscles, etc.) Not flabby; firm, toned; (of a person) having a lean, strong body.
(of music, writing, etc.) Containing only relevant parts; brief and controlled.
(figuratively) Experiencing anxiety or stress.
(nautical, of a sailor, a ship, etc.) Neat and well-disciplined; (by extension) efficient and in order.
(oenology) Strong; uncompromising.
To make taut; to tauten, to tighten.
The cold wind blew in again through the front door, and with a desperate, frantic energy Evelyn stretched both her arms around the bowl. She must be quick—she must be strong. She tightened her arms until they ached, tauted the thin strips of muscle under her soft flesh, and with a mighty effort raised it and held it.