noose

American  

[noos] / nus /

noun

1. a loop with a running knot, as in a snare, lasso, or hangman's halter, that tightens as the rope is pulled.

2. a tie or bond; snare.

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verb (used with object)

noosed, noosing

1. to secure by or as by a noose.

2. to make a noose with or in (a rope or the like).

noose British  

/ nuːs /

noun

1. a loop in the end of a rope or cord, such as a lasso, snare, or hangman's halter, usually tied with a slipknot

2. something that restrains, binds, or traps

3. to bring about one's own downfall

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verb

1. to secure or catch in or as if in a noose

2. to make a noose of or in

Other Word Forms

• nooser noun
• unnoosed adjective

Etymology

Origin of noose

1400–50; late Middle English nose < ?

Example Sentences

By handing Banks a length of rope instead, and standing by as she prettily ties it into a noose, they invite the audience to conclude that the many sins of “Top Model” weren’t merely systemic.

From Salon • Feb. 20, 2026

If rates keep climbing, the fiscal noose might tighten.

From Barron's • Jan. 8, 2026

Despite waves of Carthaginian resistance and the increasing hostility of Roman elites, who resented his precocious record and thirst for glory, Scipio tightened the noose around Carthage.

From The Wall Street Journal • Nov. 16, 2025

"It's been like a noose around our neck, ever since the route was chosen," says Ms Thacker, who has lived in her house for 38 years.

From BBC • Mar. 28, 2025

So she must capture the tree with the noose of her rope and use it to get across the wide expanse of vertical rock.

From "Son" by Lois Lowry