# leash

/ˈɫiʃ/ (US) · /lˈiːʃ/ (UK)

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

## Senses

### 1. animal restraint

noun · CEFR B1

a long strap, cord, or chain used to hold and lead an animal, like a dog.

For teachers: a strap or cord for restraining or guiding an animal, typically attached to a collar or harness.

- The law requires all owners to keep their dogs on a leash in the city park.
- The trainer insisted that the puppy remain on a short leash until it learned to ignore the distractions of the busy street.

### 2. to fasten or secure

verb · CEFR B2

to tie or secure an animal using a strap.

For teachers: to secure or fasten an animal with a leash or similar tether.

- He leashed the dog to the fence while he went inside the shop for a moment.
- Before starting the hike, she leashed the golden retriever to ensure it wouldn't chase the local wildlife.

### 3. to control or curb

verb · CEFR C1 · Literary

to control or limit a feeling or an action.

For teachers: to restrain, curb, or keep under tight control; often used figuratively regarding emotions or power.

- She had to leash her anger during the meeting to remain professional.
- The administration attempted to leash the growing inflation through a series of aggressive interest rate hikes and spending cuts.

### 4. a group of three

noun · CEFR C2 · Archaic

an old word for a group of three animals or things.

For teachers: a set of three, particularly used in historical contexts for greyhounds, foxes, or hares.

- The hunter returned with a leash of hares hanging from his belt.
- In medieval hunting terminology, a leash of hounds referred specifically to three dogs held on a single line.

## Examples

- Please keep your dog on a leash while walking in the park.
- The law requires all pet owners to use a leash when walking their dogs on public sidewalks.
- The puppy strained against its leather leash, eager to investigate the scent of the nearby flowerbeds despite its owner's firm grip.

---

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.