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Definition of tether

tether

/ˈtɛð.ər/
teth · er

Plural:tethers
•
Past Simple:tethered
•
Past Participle:tethered
•
Present Participle:tethering
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tether Lexical Profile

tether Game Scores & Validity

• verb

1

To connect a mobile device to a computer or other device in order to share its internet connection.

Example

"Since the hotel lacked Wi-Fi, she tethered her laptop to her smartphone to send the email."


2

To tie an animal or object to a fixed point with a rope or chain to restrict its movement.

Example

"We tethered the horses to a tree near the river before setting up camp."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• noun

1

A rope, chain, or strong cord used to tie an animal to a fixed point, restricting its movement.

Example

"The farmer secured the young calf to a heavy wooden post with a short tether."


2

The absolute limit of one's resources, endurance, or patience.

Example

"After working three double shifts in a row, the nurse felt she was at the end of her tether."

Synonyms
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• Rhymes for tether

Word Origin & Etymology

From Middle English 'tether', derived from Old Norse 'tjóðr', denoting a rope or chain used to tie an animal.

Cite this Entry


Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Tether. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Oct 15, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/tether
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