n. & v.
n. 1 a long thin flexible material made from several twisted strands. b a piece of this. 2 Anat. a structure in the body resembling a cord (spinal cord). 3 a ribbed fabric, esp. corduroy. b (in pl.) corduroy trousers. c a cordlike rib on fabric. 4 an electric flex. 5 a measure of cut wood (usu. 128 cu.ft., 3.6 cubic metres). 6 a moral or emotional tie (cords of affection; fourfold cord of evidence).
v.tr. 1 fasten or bind with cord. 2 (as corded adj.) a (of cloth) ribbed. b provided with cords. c (of muscles) standing out like taut cords. cordlike adj.
[ ME f. OF corde f. L chorda f. Gk khorde gut, string of musical instrument ]