# lash down

CEFR B2 · Phrasal verb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/lash-down
Updated: 2026-04-24

## Definition

to hit something repeatedly with force, or to secure something firmly in place.

For teachers: to strike repeatedly with force; to fasten or secure something firmly in place. Transitive, often used in contexts involving physical restraint or maritime operations.

## Examples

- The storm lashed down the trees with strong winds.
- Workers lashed down the cargo to prevent it from shifting during transport.
- On the storm-lashed deck, sailors lashed down the barrels with ropes to avoid loss at sea.

## Pitfalls

- Not "He lashed down at the door." but "He lashed out at the door." — 'down' refers to securing, while 'out' indicates direction of attack — a common confusion for learners.

## Usage notes

- typically followed by a direct object indicating what is being struck or secured.
- Teaching tip: contrast with 'lash out' (to attack suddenly) and 'tie down' (to secure); 'lash down' emphasizes force or fixation rather than direction of attack.

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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.