drawstring

American  

[draw-string] / ˈdrɔˌstrɪŋ /

Or draw string

noun

1. a string or cord that tightens or closes an opening, as of a bag, clothing, or the like, when one or both ends are pulled.

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drawstring British  

/ ˈdrɔːˌstrɪŋ /

noun

1. 1. a cord, ribbon, etc, run through a hem around an opening, as on the bottom of a sleeve or at the mouth of a bag, so that when it is pulled tighter, the opening closes

   2. ( as modifier )

      a drawstring neckline

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Etymology

Origin of drawstring

First recorded in 1825–35; draw + string

Explanation

A long cord used to gather fabric, especially in clothing, is called a drawstring. If the wind feels unexpectedly chilly this morning, you can put up the hood of your sweatshirt and pull the drawstring tight. You might find a drawstring in the hood of your coat, the waist of your sweatpants, or the opening in your backpack. Typically, a drawstring hangs loose unless it's tightened or tied shut. Most drawstrings are laced through loops of material, or into a tube, like the waist of a skirt. Little kids' clothes can't legally have drawstrings, since they're considered hazardous.

Example Sentences

This structure tightens like a drawstring, squeezing the cell into two daughter cells.

From Science Daily • Feb. 28, 2026

Hard to know what she’ll appreciate more: the peaceful slumber or the practical drawstring bag constructed in the same silky fabric as the mask and scrunchie.

From The Wall Street Journal • Nov. 20, 2025

Already chic, an adjustable drawstring hem and belted detailing at the waist and wrists allows you to style the jacket your way.

From Los Angeles Times • Oct. 20, 2025

The young adult snakes were hidden in the inner thigh of his pants in snake bags tied to the pants’ drawstring.

From Seattle Times • Feb. 14, 2024

Teenie tucked a colored piece of fabric into the packet and closed it tightly with a drawstring.

From "Copper Sun" by Sharon M. Draper