lanyard

Meanings

1. A short rope used for fastening rigging, as a handle, etc.
2. A cord worn around the neck, shoulder, or wrist which is attached to a small object to be carried such as an identity card or security pass, key, knife, or whistle.
3. A craft activity done by intricately braiding thin colored plastic lines to make patterns, or the product of such a craft.
4. A cord with a hook which is secured to an artillery piece, and pulled to fire the weapon.

Etymology

From late Middle English lainer, lainere, lanyer (“strap or thong used to fasten armour”) (with the ending modified in the 17th century under the influence of yard), from Old French laniere, lasniere (“thong, lash”) (see modern French lanière (“lanyard, strap”)). The French word is ultimately from Germanic, cognate with Old High German nestila (“band, headband; strap”) (modern German Nestel (“lace; strap; string”)), Old Norse nesta (“brace; fastener, strap”).