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

A relative told us it was "like a noose around our necks", and another expressed frustration that "you can't give them away".

From BBC

Then she hoists each dog onto a work table, attaching the animal loosely to a loop she cheerfully calls a noose.

From The Wall Street Journal

The reader feels the noose tighten and shares Ms. Chang’s distress as it becomes evident after 2018 that she can no longer visit her home country—or her mother’s deathbed.

From The Wall Street Journal

If rates keep climbing, the fiscal noose might tighten.

From Barron's