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

Until meaningful regulation catches up to the industry’s growth, the burden falls on owners to ask hard questions before handing over the leash. — Ryan Brennan, Kansas City Star, 13 July 2026

Instead of tightening a leash or pushing on a dog’s back to force them to do a trick, pooches are commonly rewarded with treats, toys or positive affirmations. — Patrick Ryan, USA Today, 10 July 2026

The owner was reportedly startled and dropped the leash before the two animals fought, DEEP officials said. — Justin Muszynski, Hartford Courant, 9 July 2026

Dogs must be on leash or in carriers and cats must be in carriers. — Ut Community Press, San Diego Union-Tribune, 7 July 2026

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

Rhymes for leash

• quiche
• pastiche
• unleash

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