/ ˈhɑːnɪs; NAmE ˈhɑːrnɪs/ noun , verb
■ noun
1.
a set of strips of leather and metal pieces that is put around a horse's head and body so that the horse can be controlled and fastened to a carriage , etc.
2.
a set of strips of leather, etc. for fastening sth to a person's body or to keep them from moving off or falling :
a safety harness
—picture at car seat
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IDIOMS
- in harness
- in harness (with sb)
■ verb [ vn ]
1.
harness sth (to sth) to put a harness on a horse or other animal; to attach a horse or other animal to sth with a harness :
to harness a horse
We harnessed two ponies to the cart.
( figurative )
In some areas, the poor feel harnessed to their jobs.
2.
to control and use the force or strength of sth to produce power or to achieve sth :
attempts to harness the sun's rays as a source of energy
We must harness the skill and creativity of our workforce.
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WORD ORIGIN
Middle English : from Old French harneis military equipment, from Old Norse , from herr army + nest provisions.