Yoke

/joʊk/

Meaning & Definition

noun

A wooden crosspiece that is fastened over the necks of two animals (such as oxen) and attached to the plow or wagon that they are to pull.

The farmer placed the yoke over the oxen before they began to plow the field.

A frame or device that joins together for harnessing or controlling.

The engineer designed a yoke to secure the two machines together for optimal performance.

A bond or tie; something that connects or binds.

The yoke of oppression was lifted from the people after the revolution.

verb

To join together or couple (especially animals) by means of a yoke.

The shepherd yoked the sheepdogs to help him herd the flock.

To put a yoke on (as in harnessing animals); to bind or unite.

They yoked the two horses for the carriage ride.

To impose a burden on someone; to enslave or control.

The dictator yoked the citizens to a life of servitude.

Middle English 'yoke', from Old English 'geoc', related to Old Norse 'jok' and Latin 'jugum'.

yoke of bondage

A metaphorical expression meaning to be under oppression or servitude.

to yoke together

To join or link things in a cooperative manner.

yoked to

Being connected or bound to someone or something.

harness

A set of straps and fittings by which a horse or other draft animal is fastened to a cart, plow, etc.

bondage

The state of being a slave or in a form of servitude.

To engage or involve in a situation.

You really yoked yourself into that project without thinking!

To take something on or bear a responsibility.

He yoked the financial burden of the house on his shoulders.