lanyard

noun

lan·​yard ˈlan-yərd 

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 (such 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)

Examples of lanyard in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

When the employee refused, the woman, who was later identified as Love, allegedly kicked and shoved the worker and forcibly removed a lanyard from around her neck that had the keys on it, Boislard said. —Justin Muszynski, Hartford Courant, 8 July 2025

Optional extras include a leather carrying case, a lanyard, and a full 12-piece bit set. —New Atlas, 11 June 2025

Shoppers were given a lanyard and a list of more than 25 participating businesses to visit, collecting ribbons at each shop and hopping on one of two trolleys making the rounds. —Joseph States, Chicago Tribune, 9 May 2025

Unlike the thin lanyards on most crossbody phone cases, the Bodie's strap feels equivalent to one on a nice handbag. —Brenda Stolyar, Wired News, 2 May 2025

Word History

Etymology

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

First Known Use

1626, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for lanyard

• spaniard

Kids Definition

lanyard

noun

lan·​yard ˈlan-yərd 

1

: a rope or line for fastening something in ships

2

: a cord worn around the neck or shoulder to hold a knife or whistle

3

: a strong cord used in firing a cannon