harness

Reading level: hard

Estimated CEFR level: B2 — Upper-Intermediate

Estimated from word frequency; not an official CEFR classification.

Definition

  1. noun a support consisting of an arrangement of straps for holding something to the body (especially one supporting a person suspended from a parachute)
  2. noun stable gear consisting of an arrangement of leather straps fitted to a draft animal so that it can be attached to and pull a cart
  3. verb put a harness

Etymology

From Middle English harneys, harnes, harneis, harnais, herneis, from Anglo-Norman harneis and Old French hernois (“equipment used in battle”), believed to be from Old Norse *hernest, from herr (“army”) + nest (“provisions”) (from Proto-Germanic *nesaną (“to heal, recover”)). More at harry.

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