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tie · verb /tɑɪ/Full view
Nouns: tie
Verbs: tie, untie
tie (FASTEN)
B1 I or T to fasten something with string, rope, etc.
Dictionary examples:

The dog was tied to a tree.

This skirt ties at the waist.

She tied the ribbon tightly in a bow/knot.

I tie my hair back when it's hot.

Learner example:

But I knew and felt that my knif[e] was still tied to my leg. (First Certificate in English; B2; German)

tie (MAKE A KNOT)
B1 T to make a knot in a piece of string, rope, etc.
Dictionary examples:

She tied the scarf.

Could you tie this piece of string for me?

Tie (up) your shoelaces, or you'll trip over.

Learner example:

While Jane was tying the lace, she convinced herself that it was just her imagination. (First Certificate in English; B2; Russian)

tie (COMPETITION/GAME)
C2 I to have the same score as someone else at the end of a competition or game
Dictionary example:

Sweden tied with France in the winter sports competition.

tie the knot
C2 to get married
Dictionary example:

We're planning to tie the knot in April.

Learner example:

She was going to tie the knot in July. (Certificate of Proficiency in English; C2; Japanese)

tie up sb/sth or tie sb/sth up
B2 to tie a part of someone's body with a rope or something similar so that they cannot get away
Dictionary examples:

The two members of staff were tied up during the robbery.

The horses were tied up outside.

Learner example:

It was his mother being tied up in his living room, unable to speak. (First Certificate in English; B2; Greek)

tie · noun C /tɑɪ/
Nouns: tie
Verbs: tie, untie
tie
A2 a long, thin piece of cloth that a man wears around his neck with a shirt
Dictionary example:

He always wears a jacket and tie to work.

Learner example:

I got presents like shoes, ties, shirts, pens, etc. (Key English Test; A2; Portuguese)

ties
C2 relationships that connect you with a place, person, etc.
Dictionary examples:

Family ties are weaker if you move a long way away.

I no longer feel any ties with my home town.

He urged governments worldwide to break diplomatic ties with the new regime.

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