tie

¹tie

noun \ˈtī\

Definition of TIE

1

a : a line, ribbon, or cord used for fastening, uniting, or drawing something closed; especially : shoelace b (1) : a structural element (as a rod or angle iron) holding two pieces together : a tension member in a construction (2) : any of the transverse supports to which railroad rails are fastened to keep them in line

2

: something that serves as a connecting link: as a : a moral or legal obligation to someone or something typically constituting a restraining power, influence, or duty b : a bond of kinship or affection

3

: a curved line that joins two musical notes of the same pitch to denote a single tone sustained through the time value of the two

4

a : an equality in number (as of votes or scores) b : equality in a contest; also : a contest that ends in a draw

5

: a method or style of tying or knotting

6

: something that is knotted or is to be knotted when worn: as a : necktie b : a low laced shoe : oxford

— tie·less \-ləs\ adjective

Examples of TIE

1. He was wearing a suit and tie.
2. You have a spot on your tie.
3. The pants have a tie at the top.
4. He was not ready to accept the ties of family life.

Origin of TIE

Middle English teg, tye, from Old English tēag; akin to Old Norse taug rope, Old English tēon to pull — more at tow

First Known Use: before 12th century

Related to TIE

Synonyms: dead heat, draw, stalemate, standoff

Related Words: deadlock, impasse; seesaw; photo finish; horse race, toss-up

Near Antonyms: detaching, disengaging, parting, separation; unbinding, unfastening, unfettering, untying (or untieing); emancipation, freedom, liberation, release

see all synonyms and antonyms

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Other Railroad Terms

cowcatcher, cupola, gauge, vestibule, yard