Leash

/liːʃ/

Meaning & Definition

noun

A strap or cord for restraining and guiding an animal, especially a dog.

She held the dog's leash tightly to prevent it from running into the street.

A means of control or restraint.

The manager kept a tight leash on the budget to avoid overspending.

verb

To restrain or control (an animal) with a leash.

He leashed the dog before taking it to the park.

To bring under control or manage carefully.

The teacher tried to leash the students' enthusiasm for the project.

Middle English 'leesh', from Old French 'laisse', from the Latin 'laesa' meaning 'to let go'.

to be on a short leash

To have limited freedom or autonomy.

leash law

A law requiring dogs to be kept on a leash in public places.

to leash one's emotions

To control or restrain one's feelings.

tether

A rope or chain that holds something in place.

lead

A cord or strap attached to a collar for guiding an animal.

harness

A set of straps placed on an animal to control its movement.

To be kept under control or restricted.

Since he started dating her, he's been on a leash.

To be held back from doing what one wants.

They're putting him on a leash with those new rules.