lanyard

or lan·iard

[ lan-yerd ]

noun

1. Nautical. a short rope or wire rove through deadeyes to hold and tauten standing rigging.
2. any of various small cords or ropes for securing or suspending something, as a whistle about the neck or a knife from one's belt.
3. a cord with a small hook at one end, used in firing certain kinds of cannon.
4. a colored, single-strand cord worn around the left shoulder by a member of a military unit awarded a foreign decoration.
5. a white cord worn around the right shoulder, as by a military police officer, and secured to the butt of a pistol.

lanyard

/ ˈlænjəd /

noun

1. a cord worn around the neck, shoulder, etc, to hold something such as a whistle or knife
2. a similar but merely decorative cord worn as part of a military uniform
3. a cord with an attached hook used in firing certain types of cannon
4. nautical a line rove through deadeyes for extending or tightening standing rigging

Word History and Origins

Origin of lanyard¹

1475–85; blend of late Middle English lanyer (< Middle French laniere, Old French lasniere thong, equivalent to lasne noose + -iere, feminine of -ier -ier ² ) and yard ¹

Word History and Origins

Origin of lanyard¹

C15 lanyer, from French lanière, from lasne strap, probably of Germanic origin

Example Sentences

Pupils with special educational needs and disabilities at Werneth School in Stockport, Greater Manchester, had been told they would face disciplinary action if they did not carry or wear the sunflower lanyards.

From BBC

A drug dealer who changed her name and went on the run for 16 months was finally found wearing a "fancy dress" NHS lanyard and scrubs.

From BBC

Her press ID was visible on a lanyard around her neck.

From Los Angeles Times

All attendees would also get a lanyard similar to the ones worn in the actual negotiations.

From New York Times

Scottish Parliament staff are no longer allowed to wear rainbow lanyards - or other accessories that show support for social movements - at Holyrood.

From BBC