# cord

/ˈkɔɹd/ (US) · /kˈɔːd/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/cord
Updated: 2026-08-15

## Senses

### 1. thick string

noun · CEFR B1

a long, thin, flexible material made of twisted threads, similar to a thin rope.

For teachers: a flexible length of twisted yarns or strands of fibre, typically thicker than string but thinner than rope.

- He tied the heavy package together with a piece of strong nylon cord.
- The climbers used a durable synthetic cord to secure their secondary gear to the rock face during the ascent.

### 2. electrical wire

noun · CEFR B1

a flexible wire that carries electricity to a lamp or machine.

For teachers: a flexible electrical conductor consisting of insulated wires protected by an outer sleeve.

- The vacuum cleaner has a very long cord so you can reach every corner.
- The technician warned that the frayed power cord posed a significant fire hazard and required immediate replacement.

### 3. body structure

noun · CEFR B2 · Technical

a part of the body that looks like a cord, such as a nerve or a tendon.

For teachers: an anatomical structure resembling a cord, specifically a tendon, nerve, or the spinal cord.

- The doctor explained that the spinal cord carries signals from the brain.
- The surgeon was careful not to damage the vocal cords while performing the delicate procedure on the patient's throat.

### 4. wood measurement

noun · CEFR C1 · American English

a standard amount of wood used for fuel, usually a large stack.

For teachers: a unit of measurement for firewood equal to 128 cubic feet, typically stacked four feet high and eight feet long.

- We ordered a full cord of wood to keep the fireplace burning all winter.
- The homeowner calculated that two cords of seasoned oak would be sufficient to heat the cabin throughout the coldest months.

### 5. to tie or fasten

verb · CEFR C1 · Formal

to tie something up or fasten it using a cord.

For teachers: to bind, fasten, or secure an object using cords.

- The workers corded the bundles of newspapers before loading them onto the truck.
- The antique trunk was corded tightly with hemp rope to ensure it remained closed during the long sea voyage.

## Examples

- The lamp has a long white cord.
- He tied the heavy bundle of newspapers together with a piece of thick nylon cord.
- The technician carefully untangled the power cord from the desk legs to ensure the server remained connected during the office relocation.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.