lanyard

noun

lan·​yard ˈlan-yərd 

1

: a piece of rope or line for fastening something in a ship

especially : one of the pieces passing through deadeyes to extend shrouds or stays

2

a

: a cord or strap to hold something (such as a knife or a whistle) and usually worn around the neck

b

: a cord worn as a symbol of a military citation

3

: a strong line used to activate a system (as in firing a cannon)

Examples of lanyard in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Blue's last post—of her seductively licking a Schoolies lanyard—was shared a week ago, presumably shortly before her arrest and detainment. —Lydia Patrick, MSNBC Newsweek, 11 Dec. 2025

Lastly, it's got a little hole to string through a keyring, lanyard or carabiner. —Abhimanyu Ghoshal, New Atlas, 10 Dec. 2025

In the circulating videos, security on the floor level of the venue can be seen stripping Wen of his glasses, a lanyard, and multiple wristbands. —Larisha Paul, Rolling Stone, 9 Dec. 2025

The straps are adjustable to fit various heights and builds, and the lanyard doesn’t require any adhesives or special tools to install. —Anne Taylor, Travel + Leisure, 30 Nov. 2025

Word History

Etymology

Middle English lanyer thong, lanyard, from Anglo-French lanier

First Known Use

1626, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for lanyard

• spaniard

Kids Definition

lanyard

noun

lan·​yard ˈlan-yərd 

1

: a rope or line for fastening something in ships

2

: a cord worn around the neck or shoulder to hold a knife or whistle

3

: a strong cord used in firing a cannon