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

The blankets made vivid additions to the more practical harnesses, leashes, and snow boots that all of the dogs must wear on the snowy trail. —Christian Allaire, Vogue, 10 Mar. 2026

The owner drops the leash at the start, gives a command and tries to get to the end before the dog. —Steve Sadin, Chicago Tribune, 9 Mar. 2026

There’s obvious risk of injury and benching (although the contract and familiar coaching staff should afford Willis a long leash), but he’ll be ranked as a weekly starter thanks to the rushing. —Jake Ciely, New York Times, 9 Mar. 2026

Keep pets on a leash when going out for exercise and keep dogs out of the bushes. —Michele Gile, CBS News, 7 Mar. 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