lanyard

noun

lan·​yard ˈlan-yərd How to pronounce lanyard (audio)
Synonyms of lanyardnext
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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
At the welcome center, the Vance children got credentials on lanyards and souvenir Ralph Lauren teddy bear Olympics pins. Bart Jansen, USA Today, 6 Feb. 2026 The price includes a five-punch festival sampling lanyard. Dewayne Bevil, The Orlando Sentinel, 5 Feb. 2026 The package also typically includes a small gift and a VIP souvenir lanyard. Laura Sirikul, Forbes.com, 29 Jan. 2026 Keep it close—and securely attached to you—with a sleek phone lanyard. Kelsey Glennon, Travel + Leisure, 26 Jan. 2026 See All Example Sentences for lanyard

Word History

Etymology

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

First Known Use

1626, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of lanyard was in 1626

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Lanyard.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/lanyard. Accessed 15 Feb. 2026.

Kids Definition

lanyard

noun
lan·​yard ˈlan-yərd How to pronounce lanyard (audio)
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

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