noun
tie
teye
noun
1
A narrow strip of fabric worn around the neck, usually with a shirt collar, as an item of formal clothing.
"He loosened his tie after the long meeting."
"She bought her father a new tie for his birthday."
2
A strong connection or bond between people, groups, or things.
"The two countries have close economic ties."
"Family ties brought them back together after years apart."
3
A result in a competition where two or more sides finish with equal scores.
"The match ended in a tie after extra time."
verb
1
To fasten or attach something using string, rope, or a similar material.
"He tied his shoelaces before the race."
"She tied the parcel with brown string."
2
To have the same score or result as another competitor.
"The two runners tied for first place."
How to Use Tie
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishTo fasten something with string or a knot, or a neckwear item, connection, or equal result — depending on context.
Common pairings
tie a knot
wear a tie
family ties
end in a tie
Word Forms
tied past tense, ties plural, ties singular
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Etymology
From Old English tēag, meaning "cord" or "chain," going back to a Proto-Germanic root for binding things together.