harness
HAH-nuhs
Harness (noun) means a set of straps used to control or support an animal, person, or piece of equipment. Example: “The dog pulled hard against its harness.”
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."
"The toddler sat happily in her car seat, held in by a padded harness."
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."
"Farmers in the valley harness the strong wind to power their machines."
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
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Word forms
- Plural
- harnesses
- Third person singular
- harnesses
- Past tense
- harnessed
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
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."
Synonyms
View more →Antonyms
unharness
Related words
Frequently asked questions
What does “harness” mean?
The word “harness” means a set of straps used to control or support an animal, person, or piece of equipment. In plain terms, a set of straps for control or safety, or (as a verb) putting some force or ability to productive use.
How do you pronounce “harness”?
“Harness” is pronounced HAH-nuhs (/ˈhɑɹ.nəs/ in IPA).
How do you use “harness” in a sentence?
Here is “harness” used in a sentence: “The dog pulled hard against its harness.”
What part of speech is “harness”?
Depending on how it is used, “harness” can be a noun and a verb.
Where does the word “harness” come from?
The word “harness” comes from Old French. From Old French hernois, "equipment used in battle," ultimately traced back to Old Norse roots meaning "army" and "provisions.".
Is “harness” a common word?
“Harness” is an uncommon word in modern English, usually learned at around the B1 level.
How many meanings does “harness” have?
“Harness” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a set of straps used to control or support an animal, person, or piece of equipment.
What is the difference between harness as a noun and as a verb?
As a noun, a harness is a set of straps used to control or support an animal, person, or piece of equipment, such as a horse harness or a climbing harness. As a verb, to harness means to bring something powerful under control so it can be put to use, such as "harnessing wind energy."
What does it mean to harness a resource like energy or talent?
To harness a resource means to bring its power under control so it can be put to productive use, as in "harness solar power" or "harness someone's creativity." This figurative use extends the literal idea of fitting straps onto an animal to direct its strength.
What are common types of harnesses?
Common harnesses include those used to control animals such as horses or dogs, safety harnesses used in climbing or fall protection, and car seat harnesses that secure a person in place. Each is a set of straps designed to control or support whatever it is fitted to.
