tailed

tail ► NOUN 1) the hindmost part of an animal, especially when extended beyond the rest of the body. 2) something extending downwards, outwards, or back like an animal's tail. 3) the rear part of an aircraft, with the tailplane and rudder. 4) the final, more distant, or weaker part. 5) (tails) the side of a coin without the image of a head on it. 6) (tails) informal a tailcoat, or a man's formal evening suit with such a coat. 7) informal a person secretly following another to observe their movements.

► VERB 1) informal secretly follow and observe. 2) (tail off/away) gradually diminish in amount, strength, or intensity. 3) (tail back) Brit. (of traffic) become congested and form a tailback.

● on someone's tail — Cf. ↑on someone's tail

● with one's tail between one's legs — Cf. ↑with one's tail between one's legs

● with one's tail up — Cf. ↑with one's tail up

DERIVATIVES tailed adjective tailless adjective.

ORIGIN Old English.