ligatures

noun

plural of ligature
1
as in handcuffs
something that physically prevents free movement the surgeon tied a ligature around the tube to keep it in place

Synonyms & Similar Words

Relevance
2
as in links
a uniting or binding force or influence a common language is often the ligature that unites the people of a nation

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Example Sentences

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.
Recent Examples of ligatures Court records cited by the outlets state DNA recovered from ligatures used to bind Weaver was eventually linked through the FBI's Combined DNA Index System, or CODIS, to Gaff, who had previously been convicted in a separate rape case. — Christina Coulter, PEOPLE, 15 May 2026
Recent Examples of Synonyms for ligatures
  1. handcuffs
  2. links
  3. chains
  4. bonds
  5. bracelets
  6. ties
  7. cuffs
  8. cords
Noun
  • Hector Alvarez saw them being walked out of the skyscraper's loading dock in handcuffs.
    — Jesse Zanger, CBS News, 1 July 2026
  • Once outside, paramedics determined that Martin had stopped breathing, removed his handcuffs and began CPR.
    — Shaun Goodwin, Idaho Statesman, 26 June 2026
Definition of handcuffs
Noun
  • Even during the heady days of the 1980s, Tyler maintained close links with the Swansea area.
    — Abid Rahman, HollywoodReporter, 9 July 2026
  • However, StyleCaster may receive a commission on orders placed through its retail links, and the retailer may receive certain auditable data for accounting purposes.
    — Gina Vaynshteyn, StyleCaster, 9 July 2026
Definition of links
Noun
  • In addition to big chains like Chipotle and Pitfire Pizza, a host of Mexican food options ranging from late-night taco trucks to sit-down restaurants now line Sunset Boulevard.
    — Los Angeles Times, Los Angeles Times, 10 July 2026
  • The World Cup 2026 is down to quarterfinals, but restaurant chains are still getting into the game.
    — Fielding Buck, Oc Register, 9 July 2026
Definition of chains
Noun
  • Many have worked and trained alongside each other for years, forming bonds that transcend cultures and languages.
    — Mery Mogollón, Los Angeles Times, 5 July 2026
  • But that doesn’t mean the bonds and awakenings that have been sown won’t grow in their own ways, whether in terms of enduring perceptions or travels to or from here to other nations or inspiring future leaders.
    — Vahe Gregorian July 4, Kansas City Star, 4 July 2026
Definition of bonds
Noun
  • The collection boasts an assortment of rings, bracelets, necklaces and earrings.
    — Julia Teti, Footwear News, 8 July 2026
  • There are old notebooks stacked in corners, friendship bracelets sprawled across my bathroom counter, tickets hidden between book pages and enough random chargers to power a small city.
    — Shivali H. Patra, Mercury News, 8 July 2026
Definition of bracelets
Noun
  • From John Fusco, Thunder Road is the multi-generational saga of the fictional Whitlock family, whose legacy in stock car racing is as deep as the family’s ties to the Southern hill country roots that shaped them.
    — Rosy Cordero, Deadline, 6 July 2026
  • Fans criticized Swift and Kelce for allowing someone with ICE connections to their wedding, given their Democratic ties.
    — Maya Georgi, Rolling Stone, 6 July 2026
Definition of ties
Noun
  • Thick cuffs and a front breast pocket keep the shirt looking crisp and polished.
    — Claire West, PEOPLE, 6 July 2026
  • His cuffs and chains were removed and a few minutes later he was pronounced dead, according to the family.
    — Kamal Morgan, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 1 July 2026
Definition of cuffs
Noun
  • Avoid entering basements or rooms where electrical outlets or cords are submerged in water.
    — NC Weather Bot, Charlotte Observer, 8 July 2026
  • Avoid basements or rooms where water has submerged electrical outlets or cords.
    — CA Weather Bot, Sacbee.com, 8 July 2026
Definition of cords

Browse Nearby Words

ligature
ligatures
light
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Cite this Entry

“Ligatures.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/ligatures. Accessed 12 Jul. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on ligatures

Nglish: Translation of ligatures for Spanish Speakers

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