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

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 • Jan. 31, 2026

If rates keep climbing, the fiscal noose might tighten.

From Barron's • Jan. 8, 2026

"It's been like a noose around our neck, ever since the route was chosen," says Ms Thacker, who has lived in her house for 38 years.

From BBC • Mar. 28, 2025

Or consider the innumerable examples that aren’t just proposals but routine policy: the tidal wave of denied or delayed claims, the noose of restrictive networks, costly deductibles, prescription refusals and on and on.

From Salon • Dec. 6, 2024

Emma rubbed her palms together and pulled them slowly apart, drawing out a noose of flame.

From "Miss Peregrine's Home for Peculiar Children" by Ransom Riggs