To fasten or join something using a knot or string. As a noun, it can also mean a piece of clothing worn around the neck or a situation where two sides have the same score.
From Old English 'tīgan' meaning 'to tie, bind, connect.' It is related to Old Norse 'tæja' and other Germanic words for binding. The noun sense for neckwear developed in the 17th century from 'cravat'‑like cloth ties.
Tie is one of those words where the physical action—binding things together—explains all the meanings. You tie your shoes, but you also have family ties and a game that ends in a tie where no one can pull ahead. The word quietly links knots, relationships, and fairness.
Neck ties have historically been associated with men’s formal wear and professional authority, contributing to norms that code 'professionalism' as masculine. At the same time, 'ties' as social or family bonds have sometimes been framed as women’s responsibility to maintain.
Use 'tie' neutrally for clothing, sports scores, or connections. Avoid assuming only men wear ties or that maintaining family ties is primarily women’s work.
["neckwear","draw","connection","link"]
Women and gender-nonconforming people have used ties as fashion and political statements to challenge gendered dress codes and notions of professionalism.
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