# drawstring

/dɹˈɔːstɹɪŋ/ (UK) · CEFR B1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/drawstring
Updated: 2026-10-16

## Definition

a thin cord you pull to close or tighten clothes or bags, like on hoodies or sweatpants.

For teachers: a cord threaded through a hem or casing that tightens an opening when pulled and loosens when released. Commonly found in waistbands, hoods, and bags.

## Examples

- I pull the drawstring to close my hoodie.
- She tightens the drawstring on her gym bag before throwing it over her shoulder.
- The old canvas tent relied on a frayed drawstring that still held the flap shut against the night wind.

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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.