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bowstring

[ boh-string ]

noun

  1. the string of an archer's bow.
  2. a string, typically of horsehair, for the bow of an instrument of the violin and viol families.
  3. (especially in the Ottoman Empire) a similar string for killing people by strangulation.


verb (used with object)

, bow·stringed or bow·strung, bow·string·ing.
  1. to strangle with a bowstring or any string or band.

bowstring

/ ˈbəʊˌstrɪŋ /

noun

  1. the string of an archer's bow, usually consisting of three strands of hemp


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Word History and Origins

Origin of bowstring1

First recorded in 1350–1400, bowstring is from Middle English bowe streng. See bow 2, string

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Example Sentences

Those who assisted him in his reforms, he rewarded with the bowstring.

"You used to draw that bowstring to your ear," said Daly, sternly, as he pointed to a Swiss bow of portentous size.

All night long he pursued his way, his muscles playing tirelessly to the demands of a mind as taut as bowstring.

They would have served his purpose, and might be cast aside like a frayed bowstring or the shaft of a broken spear.

A suitable piece of wood was procured, and one of the bears sacrificed himself to provide gut for a bowstring.

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Bow Street runnerbowstring hemp