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 video shows Atlas having the time of his life on his leash, running across the beach and climbing trees. —Gordon G. Chang, Newsweek, 24 Jan. 2025

Deputies advised people with pets near freezing water to keep them on a leash. —Don Sweeney, Sacramento Bee, 23 Jan. 2025

All dogs must be on a leash, and owners must dispose of pet waste. —Joe Rassel, Orlando Sentinel, 22 Jan. 2025

Noticing a stray leash lying in the yard, Velaidum briefly stopped to pick it up before setting off on a quick walk. —Jackie Wattles, CNN, 22 Jan. 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

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