tether

UK: ˈteðə | US: ˈteðər

Definition

  1. n. a rope or chain used to tie an animal to a fixed object

  2. vt. to fasten or restrict with a tether

Structure
teth <to tie>er <noun suffix>
Etymology

The word "tether" traces back to Old Norse tjóðr, reflecting its Viking-era roots in animal husbandry. The suffix -er transforms the verb-like root into a noun, denoting the physical object (rope/chain) used for tying. Over time, its meaning expanded metaphorically to describe constraints in non-literal contexts (e.g., "tethered by responsibilities").

Examples

  1. The goat was tied to a post with a short tether.

  2. She felt tethered to her desk by endless paperwork.

  3. Astronauts use tethers to avoid floating away in space.

  4. The dog strained against its tether, eager to run free.

  5. Modern smartphones keep us tethered to constant notifications.