tow

²tow

noun

Definition of TOW

1

: a rope or chain for towing

2

a : the act or an instance of towing b : the fact or state of being towed

3

a : something towed (as a boat or car) b : a group of barges lashed together and usually pushed

4

a : something (as a tugboat) that tows b : ski tow

— in tow

1

: under guidance or protection <taken in tow by a friendly native>

2

: accompanying or following usually as an attending or dependent party <not easy shopping with kids in tow>

First Known Use of TOW

1600