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

However, his performance so far likely gets him a long leash. —Allan Mitchell, New York Times, 17 Oct. 2025

Her phone, dog leash and a visor were found around 10 to 15 yards from her body, Clark said, adding that the visor and leash were covered in blood. —Adam Sabes, FOXNews.com, 16 Oct. 2025

Prior to the puppy’s arrival, experts suggest gathering all essential supplies including grooming tools, food and water bowls, a bed, crate, collar, leash, toys, and cleaning products. —Maria Azzurra Volpe, MSNBC Newsweek, 16 Oct. 2025

With her makeup-free glow and black clogs, Ellis on her hip and Lily following along on a leash, Lupe looks like the Earth mother of Woodstock. —Angie Martoccio, Rolling Stone, 14 Oct. 2025

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