noun
harness
HAH-nuhs
noun
1
A set of straps used to control or support an animal, person, or piece of equipment.
"The dog pulled hard against its harness."
"Rock climbers always double-check their harness before a climb."
verb
1
To bring something powerful under control so it can be put to use.
"The dam harnesses the river to generate electricity."
"The coach helped him harness his natural talent."
How to Use Harness
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA set of straps for control or safety, or (as a verb) putting some force or ability to productive use.
Common pairings
harness the power of
safety harness
wear a harness
Word Forms
harnessed past tense, harnesses plural, harnesses singular
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The dog pulled hard against its _____.
Etymology
From Old French hernois, "equipment used in battle," ultimately traced back to Old Norse roots meaning "army" and "provisions."