leash
LEESH
/liːʃ/
A strap or cord for restraining or guiding a dog or other animal; to secure or control with a leash.
Implies control, restraint, or a physical connection. Metaphorically, 'to unleash' means to release powerful, uncontrolled forces.
The story behind the word. Derived from the Old French 'laisse', which comes from the verb 'laisser' (to let go or leave loose), from Latin 'laxus' (loose). Originally, a leash was a loose cord that gave a hunting hound some freedom while remaining connected to the hunter.
Word relationships
- tether: 'Tether' is a rope used to tie an animal to a fixed object, while a 'leash' is held by a person to guide the animal.
- lead: 'Lead' is often used interchangeably with leash, but can also refer to the act of guiding or a heavier rope for horses.
Commonly confused with
- collar: 'Collar' is the band worn around the animal's neck, while the 'leash' is the long strap attached to that collar.
Word family
- leashed (verb): Past tense of leash; restrained by a strap.
- unleash (verb): To release from a leash or from restraint.
Collocations
- on a leash
- off the leash
- retractable leash
- unleash power
Idioms & expressions
- strain at the leash (to be eager to do something)
- keep a tight leash on (to maintain strict control over someone)
Example sentences
- "Local laws require all dog owners to keep their pets on a leash when walking in public parks." A city ordinance rule
- "The company is ready to unleash its new marketing campaign next week." Metaphorical use of releasing energy
Memory hook
A leash keeps your pet 'least' likely to run away. Leash = Least risk. Restraining strap
When not to use
Do not use 'leash' for large livestock like horses or cattle; use 'lead', 'tether', or 'halter' instead.
Fun facts
- In heraldry, a 'leash' was a term used to describe a band of three animals, particularly three greyhounds.
Explore more words
harness, muzzle, unfettered, restrict, throttle, unconstrained
Also appears in
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