leash

noun

ˈlēsh 

1

a

: a line for leading or restraining an animal

b

: something that restrains : the state of being restrained

keeping spending on a tight leash

2

a

: a set of three animals (such as greyhounds, foxes, bucks, or hares)

b

: a set of three

leash transitive verb

Examples of leash in a Sentence

put a dog on a leash

Dogs must be kept on a leash while in the park.

The dog saw a cat and was straining at its leash trying to get at it.

Recent Examples on the Web

Bears are active in Steamboat Springs and citizens should remain alert and keep dogs on a leash. —Julianna O'Clair, The Denver Post, 26 May 2024

The difference can show in something as simple as walking his dogs off leash. —Jack Dolan, Los Angeles Times, 22 May 2024

Bodie has excellent leash manners and is rumored to enjoy being a lap dog. —The Arizona Republic, 10 May 2024

Officials also recommend wearing a leash when paddleboarding on flat water. —Brooke Baitinger, Idaho Statesman, 29 May 2024

Word History

Etymology

Middle English lees, leshe, from Anglo-French *lesche, lesse, probably from lesser to leave, let go

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Phrases Containing leash

• leash law
• strain at the leash

Kids Definition

leash

noun

ˈlēsh 

1

: a line for leading or controlling an animal

2

: something that restrains : the state of being restrained

kept spending on a tight leash

leash verb