drawstring
B2Neutral to informal in everyday contexts; technical in fashion/design contexts.
Definition
Meaning
A cord or string threaded through a hem or casing (as in the waist of a garment or the opening of a bag) that can be pulled to tighten or close the opening.
A functional closure mechanism using a cord; by extension, can refer to any adjustable closure system using a cord, or metaphorically to something that controls or restricts.
Linguistics
Semantic Notes
Primarily a noun referring to the cord itself and the feature/system as a whole. The concept is functional and concrete. Not typically used as a verb ('to drawstring' is non-standard).
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant lexical differences. Both use 'drawstring'. Minor potential spelling in compounds (e.g., 'drawstring bag' vs. 'draw-string bag', but solid form is standard).
Connotations
Neutral functional term in both. Associated with casual wear, sportswear, bags, and simple closures.
Frequency
Equally common and understood in both varieties.
Vocabulary
Collocations
Grammar
Valency Patterns
[garment/bag] with a drawstringa drawstring on [something]tighten/loosen the drawstringVocabulary
Synonyms
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “[No common idioms with 'drawstring'. Conceptually related to 'pull strings' (to exert influence), but not directly.]”
Usage
Context Usage
Business
Used in retail, fashion, and product descriptions (e.g., 'These trousers feature a comfortable drawstring waist').
Academic
Rare. Might appear in material culture studies, design, or textile history.
Everyday
Common when discussing clothing, bags, and simple closures (e.g., 'The hood has a drawstring to keep the wind out').
Technical
Used in fashion design, pattern-making, and product specification sheets.
Examples
By Part of Speech
adjective
British English
- She prefers drawstring trousers for lounging.
- It's a simple drawstring closure.
American English
- He bought drawstring shorts for the gym.
- The backpack has a drawstring top.
Examples
By CEFR Level
- My bag has a drawstring.
- Pull the drawstring to close the bag.
- These pyjama bottoms have a comfortable drawstring waist.
- I can't find the drawstring for my hoodie.
- The drawstring on my rucksack snapped, so I need to replace it.
- For a more adjustable fit, look for trousers with a drawstring rather than a fixed waistband.
- The designer utilised a concealed drawstring within the seam to create a sleek, adjustable silhouette.
- Metaphorically, he held the drawstrings of the organisation's finances, controlling all expenditure.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of a STRING you DRAW (pull) to close a bag or tighten trousers. DRAW + STRING = DRAWSTRING.
Conceptual Metaphor
CONTROL IS PULLING A STRING (e.g., 'holding the drawstrings of power' – though this is a less common metaphorical extension).
Watch out
Common Pitfalls
Translation Traps (for Russian speakers)
- Avoid direct calque 'тянущая верёвка'. The correct equivalent is 'шнурок (на кулиске)' or 'затяжной шнур'.
- Do not confuse with 'draw' as in 'to draw a picture'. Here it means 'to pull tight'.
Common Mistakes
- Using it as a verb (e.g., 'I will drawstring the bag' – incorrect). Say 'I will pull the drawstring' or 'I will tighten the drawstring'.
- Confusing 'drawstring' with 'shoelace' or 'belt'.
Practice
Quiz
What is a 'drawstring' primarily used for?
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
It is standardly written as one solid word: 'drawstring'.
No, 'drawstring' is only a noun. To describe the action, use phrases like 'pull the drawstring' or 'tighten the drawstring'.
A 'lace' (like a shoelace) is typically used for fastening by crossing and tying. A 'drawstring' is threaded through a channel (a casing) and is pulled to gather and tighten the material, then often simply knotted or tied.
They are very similar. 'Cinch cord' can be a synonym, often implying a stronger cord or a specific mechanism for pulling very tight, like on a duffel bag. 'Drawstring' is the more general, common term.