# strap

/ˈstɹæp/ (US) · /stɹˈæp/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/strap
Updated: 2026-06-20

## Senses

### 1. fastening strip

noun · CEFR B1

a narrow strip of leather, cloth, or plastic used to fasten, carry, or hold onto something.

For teachers: a long, narrow, pliable strip of material used for binding, fastening, or as a handle for carrying.

- The strap on my backpack broke because the books were too heavy.
- She adjusted the leather strap of her watch, ensuring the sensor remained in contact with her wrist for an accurate heart rate reading.

### 2. firearm

noun · CEFR C1 · Slang

a slang word for a gun, usually a small one like a pistol.

For teachers: a slang term for a personal firearm, typically a handgun.

- In many action movies, the main character is always carrying a strap.
- The lyrics often reference carrying a strap as a metaphor for the constant threat of violence in high-crime urban environments.

### 3. finance strategy

noun · CEFR C2 · Technical

a specific way of trading stocks using options to bet that prices will go up.

For teachers: an options strategy involving one put and two calls with the same strike price and expiration, used when high volatility is expected with a bullish bias.

- The trader used a strap because he thought the stock price would jump significantly.
- By employing a strap rather than a standard straddle, the investor increased their potential profit from a significant upward price movement while maintaining some downside protection.

### 4. to fasten

verb · CEFR B1

to tie or move something into place using a strip of material.

For teachers: to secure, bind, or fasten an object in place using a strap or similar flexible material.

- Make sure you strap the surfboard tightly to the roof of the car.
- The paramedics worked quickly to strap the patient onto the stretcher before navigating the narrow staircase to the ambulance.

### 5. to hit

verb · CEFR C1 · Archaic

to hit someone with a leather strip as a punishment.

For teachers: to beat or chastise a person or animal using a leather strap.

- In the old days, teachers might strap students who misbehaved in class.
- The historical novel describes a time when sailors were routinely strapped for even the most minor infractions of naval discipline.

## Examples

- The strap on my watch is made of brown leather.
- She tightened the strap on her backpack before starting the long hike up the mountain.
- The designer replaced the standard nylon strap with a reinforced leather version to ensure the heavy camera equipment remained secure during rugged outdoor use.

---

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.