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leading strings

[ lee-ding ]

plural noun

  1. strings for leading and supporting a child learning to walk.
  2. excessively restraining guidance:

    His parents tried to keep him in leading strings, but he finally married and moved away.



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Word History and Origins

Origin of leading strings1

First recorded in 1670–80
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Example Sentences

"I reckon I will have to put leading strings on both of you," replied Lawrence, with a smile.

He allowed himself to be taken in leading-strings; this, his first romantic adventure, gave him intense pleasure.

And then he was amenable to flattery, and few that are so are proof against the leading-strings of their flatterers.

He declared he would not submit his works to any ones correction; and that he would no longer be kept in leading-strings.

Meanwhile the English drama, freed from its leading strings, will find its own way for itself.

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leading reinsleading tone