Drawstrings

Part of speech: noun

Definitions

1. A cord used to cinch and adjust the fit of clothing or bags
2. A cord designed to be pulled to make clothing or bags fit more securely
3. A string threaded through fabric to adjust the tightness of garments or containers

Etymology: "Drawstrings" is the plural of "drawstring," a compound of "draw" and "string." Each part keeps its ordinary sense: a drawstring is a string that is pulled ("drawn") to close or tighten something, such as the cord at the waist of trousers or the neck of a hood. The word is a plain technical compound rather than a story of invention or transformation. Its meaning follows directly from its parts, so the everyday sense of each element explains the whole.

Synonyms: cords, ties, strings