tie
teye
Tie (noun) means a narrow strip of fabric worn around the neck, usually with a shirt collar, as an item of formal clothing. Example: “He loosened his tie after the long meeting.”
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."
"The waiter wore a black tie and a crisp white shirt."
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."
"Years living next door created a strong tie between our two families."
3
A result in a competition where two or more sides finish with equal scores.
"The match ended in a tie after extra time."
"Neither team could score again, so the quiz night finished with a tie."
"If there is a tie, the judges will ask one more question."
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."
"Please tie the boat to the post before the tide goes out."
2
To have the same score or result as another competitor.
"The two runners tied for first place."
"Two students tied on the spelling test, so they shared the prize."
"If the teams tie at the end, they will play another round."
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
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Word forms
- Plural
- ties
- Third person singular
- ties
- Past tense
- tied
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He loosened his _____ after the long meeting.
Etymology
From Old English tēag, meaning "cord" or "chain," going back to a Proto-Germanic root for binding things together.
Synonyms
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Related words
Rhymes for tie
See all rhymes for tie →Frequently asked questions
What does “tie” mean?
The word “tie” means a narrow strip of fabric worn around the neck, usually with a shirt collar, as an item of formal clothing. In plain terms, to fasten something with string or a knot, or a neckwear item, connection, or equal result — depending on context.
How do you pronounce “tie”?
“Tie” is pronounced teye (/taɪ/ in IPA).
How do you use “tie” in a sentence?
Here is “tie” used in a sentence: “He loosened his tie after the long meeting.”
What is another word for “tie”?
Words with a similar meaning to “tie” include fasten, link and bind.
What is the opposite of “tie”?
The opposite of “tie” — its antonyms — are unfasten and untie.
What part of speech is “tie”?
Depending on how it is used, “tie” can be a noun and a verb.
Where does the word “tie” come from?
The word “tie” comes from Old English. From Old English tēag, meaning "cord" or "chain," going back to a Proto-Germanic root for binding things together.
Is “tie” a common word?
“Tie” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the A2 level.
What is the difference between a tie and a bow tie?
A tie, or necktie, is a long strip of fabric knotted at the collar so the ends hang down the front of the shirt. A bow tie is much shorter and is tied into a symmetrical bow at the throat. Both are formal neckwear, but they create very different looks.
When should you wear a tie?
A tie is worn on formal or professional occasions — job interviews, business meetings, weddings, funerals, and smart events. It signals effort and respect for the setting. Many workplaces have relaxed the rule, so ties are now often optional, but they remain the safe choice when dress codes are strict.
What are the types of tie?
Common neckwear includes the standard necktie, the shorter bow tie, and the cravat, an older, wider style worn looser at the neck. There is also the slim tie, the knitted tie, and the bolo, a corded Western style. Each suits a different level of formality and fashion.
Does 'tie' have other meanings?
Yes. Besides the neck garment, 'tie' can mean to fasten something with string or rope, as in 'tie your shoes.' It also describes a drawn result in a contest, where two sides finish equal — 'the match ended in a tie.' Context makes the intended meaning clear.
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