lanyard
UK[ˈlænjəd]US[ˈlænjərd]
n
a piece of rope or cord used on a ship for fastening or tightening.
n
a cord or strap worn around the neck, shoulder, or wrist to hold a small object such as a key, identification card, or whistle.
Etymology
the word 'lanyard' entered english in the 15th century from the middle french term 'laniere', meaning a strap or thong. the french word itself likely derives from old french 'lasne', a noose or string, which has its ultimate origins in the vulgar latin 'linea', meaning a linen thread, from latin 'linum' for flax or linen. the term's journey reflects a shift from general cordage, particularly in nautical contexts for securing rigging, to its modern association with straps for holding personal items. the core logic connects the material (linen thread) to its functional use as a securing device.
Analysis
this word is a loanword adopted as a simplex unit from french. its spelling and form were anglicized, making internal morphemes from the source language not directly recoverable or meaningful in modern english.
Examples
the sailor expertly tied a knot in the lanyard to secure the rigging.
she wore her employee id badge on a brightly colored lanyard around her neck.
the whistle hung from a sturdy lanyard attached to the coach's wrist.