halyard

noun

hal·​yard ˈhal-yərd How to pronounce halyard (audio)
Synonyms of halyardnext
: a rope or tackle for hoisting and lowering something (such as sails)

Examples of halyard in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The flag should never be used for any kind of advertising purposes, and advertising signs should not be fastened to a flag's staff or halyard. — John Tufts, The Indianapolis Star, 2 July 2024 Advertising signs should not be attached to the flag's staff or halyard (the rope used to hoist the flag). — Sarah Martens, Better Homes & Gardens, 2 Aug. 2023

Word History

Etymology

Middle English halier, probably from Anglo-French *halier, from haler to haul — more at hale

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of halyard was in the 14th century

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“Halyard.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/halyard. Accessed 25 Mar. 2025.

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Kids Definition

halyard

noun
hal·​yard ˈhal-yərd How to pronounce halyard (audio)
: a rope or tackle for raising and lowering (as a sail)

More from Merriam-Webster on halyard

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