band
UK: bænd | US: bænd
n. 1. a flat strip or loop of material (e.g., rubber, metal) used to hold things together
n. 2. a group of musicians who play together
n. 3. a range of frequencies or wavelengths in a spectrum
vt. 1. to fasten or mark with a band
The word "band" originates from Old Norse band (meaning "tie, bond") and Old English bend (meaning "fetter, chain"). It evolved through Middle English to denote both physical binding (e.g., a strip of material) and metaphorical binding (e.g., a group united by a common purpose, like musicians). The dual meanings reflect the concept of connection—whether literal (tying objects) or figurative (uniting people or frequencies).
She wore a rubber band around her wrist.
The jazz band performed at the festival.
The radio station broadcasts on the FM band.
The workers banded together to protest.
The doctor bandaged the wound with a sterile band.