What does string mean?
A string is a thin cord, thread, wire, or similar material used for tying and fastening objects. The word also describes a connected series, such as a string of pearls, a string of victories, or a string of unrelated events. In music, a string is one of the stretched materials that produce sound when a violin, guitar, or similar instrument is played. As a verb, string means to fasten, connect, arrange, or extend something, as in stringing beads together or stringing lights across a garden. The noun can also mean a group of things arranged in a line, and in computing it refers to a sequence of characters treated as a unit. Its meanings connect a physical line or cord with the idea of linking things in order.
A thin length of cord, thread, wire, or similar material used for tying, fastening, or arranging things. By extension, a string is a connected series of people, objects, events, words, or data.
"He wrapped the gift with string and tied it in a bow."
To fasten or connect something with string or another linear material, or to arrange words, objects, or events in a connected sequence.
"The musicians strung the violins before the concert."
Use strings for multiple cords, lines, or sequences.
"The lights were hung in strings across the patio."
From a tightly drawn cord to a chain of events, one ordinary word has stretched its meaning from tying things together to describing almost anything arranged in sequence.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does string come from?
The English word descends from Old English streng, meaning a cord, line, or something tightly drawn. It ultimately relates to a Proto-Indo-European root associated with tightening, drawing, or stretching. The same broad root underlies words such as stringent, strict, constrain, and constrict, which developed through Latin forms connected with drawing tight. English also developed the verb meaning to fasten or arrange in a sequence, reflected in forms such as strung and stringing.
Related word forms
How string is actually used
The noun is neutral in register and can refer literally to cord or figuratively to a sequence or chain. The verb is also neutral in most senses, although phrases such as "string someone up" can sound informal or threatening. In computing, "string" is a standard technical term for a sequence of characters.
Easily confused with string
String is pronounced with an initial /str/ cluster and means a cord, sequence, or the act of connecting; sting is pronounced /stɪŋ/ and usually means a painful wound or the act of harming.
A string is a usually thin cord or line used for fastening or arranging things, while a strand is more often a single thread of hair, a thin line of material, or a group left without support.