verb / noun

tie

TYE/taɪ/

A fastening that holds parts together.

The man ties a small bundle of sticks with a cord.

An older man pulls the two ends of a cord outward to tighten a clearly visible knot around a small bundle of sticks.

Etymology

tieOld Englishto bind, join, restrict movement

The old verb joined fastening with restriction of movement. Tying something with a cord preserves that practical connection: the binding holds things together or keeps them from moving freely.

In context

ThinkTech Hawaii1:13

indoor climbing and learning the ins and outs of how to tie the knots

Rock Climbing Safety (The Sports Playbook)

More examples

A plastic tie holds the cables together.
He wears a blue tie under his shirt collar.
She maintains close ties with her childhood friends.
Wooden railroad ties keep the rails in place.

Forms

tie · ties · tied · tying

untie verb — To release by undoing a knot.

Similar words

fastener: A broader term including screws, clips, and other securing devices.
bind: Often suggests wrapping tightly or restricting movement with cord.
bond: Emphasizes a lasting connection, especially between people or groups.