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¹tie

noun \ˈtī\

: a piece of string, ribbon, cord, etc., that is used for fastening, joining, or closing something

: something (such as an idea, interest, experience, or feeling) that is shared by people or groups and that forms a connection between them

: a responsibility that limits a person's freedom to do other things

Full Definition of TIE

a : a line, ribbon, or cord used for fastening, uniting, or drawing something closed; especially : shoelace

b (1) : a structural element (as a rod or angle iron) holding two pieces together : a tension member in a construction (2) : any of the transverse supports to which railroad rails are fastened to keep them in line

: something that serves as a connecting link: as

a : a moral or legal obligation to someone or something typically constituting a restraining power, influence, or duty

b : a bond of kinship or affection

: a curved line that joins two musical notes of the same pitch to denote a single tone sustained through the time value of the two

a : an equality in number (as of votes or scores)

b : equality in a contest; also : a contest that ends in a draw

: a method or style of tying or knotting

: something that is knotted or is to be knotted when worn: as

a : necktie

b : a low laced shoe : oxford

— tie·less \-ləs\ adjective

See tie defined for English-language learners

See tie defined for kids

Origin of TIE

Middle English teg, tye, from Old English tēag; akin to Old Norse taug rope, Old English tēon to pull — more at tow

First Known Use: before 12th century

Related to TIE

Synonyms: dead heat, draw, stalemate, standoff

Other Railroad Terms

cowcatcher, cupola, gauge, vestibule, yard

²tie

verb

: to attach (someone or something) to something with a string, rope, etc.

: to pass (something, such as a string, ribbon, or rope) around itself in a way that attaches it to something or holds it in place : to make a knot or bow in (something)

: to close or hold (something) with a string, rope, etc., that is attached to it or wrapped around it

tiedty·ing \ˈtī-iŋ\ or tie·ing

Full Definition of TIE

transitive verb

a : to fasten, attach, or close by means of a tie

b : to form a knot or bow in <tie your scarf>

c : to make by tying constituent elements <tied a wreath> <tie a fishing fly>

a : to place or establish in relationship : connect

b : to unite in marriage

c : to unite (musical notes) by a tie

d : to join (power systems) electrically

: to restrain from independence or freedom of action or choice : constrain by or as if by authority, influence, agreement, or obligation

a (1) : to make or have an equal score with in a contest (2) : to equalize (the score) in a game or contest (3) : to equalize the score of (a game)

b : to provide or offer something equal to : equal

intransitive verb

: to make a tie: as

a : to make a bond or connection

b : to make an equal score

c : to become attached

d : to close by means of a tie

— tie into

: to attack with vigor

— tie one on

slang

: to get drunk