leash

noun

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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The Aubrey Hall Tree has plenty of hooks for jackets, backpacks, and pet leashes, while exposed storage compartments offer the perfect nooks for shoes, hats, and other everyday items. Mariana Best, Better Homes & Gardens, 10 Oct. 2025 Schmitt suffers a nervous breakdown after his arrogance (and Webber’s long leash on the residency program) leads to him killing a podcaster on the operating table and these two break up again. Maggie Fremont, Vulture, 9 Oct. 2025 Most beaches in Martin County are also dog-friendly, allowing for on-leash pets. Kelsey Glennon, Southern Living, 3 Oct. 2025 While the pig is still at large, Indy Parks is asking park patrons to keep their animals on leashes and alert staff of any sightings. Heather Bushman, IndyStar, 3 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for leash

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

Time Traveler
The first known use of leash was in the 14th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Leash.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/leash. Accessed 17 Oct. 2025.

Kids Definition

leash

noun
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

More from Merriam-Webster on leash

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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