Main Entry: lan·yard

Pronunciation: \ˈlan-yərd\

Function: noun

Etymology: Middle English lanyer thong, lanyard, from Anglo-French lanier

Date: 15th century

1 : a piece of rope or line for fastening something in a ship; especially : one of the pieces passing through deadeyes to extend shrouds or stays
2 a : a cord or strap to hold something (as a knife or a whistle) and usually worn around the neck b : a cord worn as a symbol of a military citation
3 : a strong line used to activate a system (as in firing a cannon)