I. ˈhȯl-tər noun
Etymology: Middle English, from Old English hælftre; akin to Old High German halftra halter, Old English hielfe helve
Date: before 12th century
1.
a. : a rope or strap for leading or tying an animal
b. : a headstall usually with noseband and throatlatch to which a lead may be attached
2. : a rope for hanging criminals : noose ; also : death by hanging
3. : a woman's blouse or top that leaves the back, arms, and midriff bare and that is typically held in place by straps around the neck and across the back
[
halter 1b
]
II. transitive verb
( hal·tered ; hal·ter·ing -t(ə-)riŋ)
Date: 14th century
1.
a. : to catch with or as if with a halter ; also : to put a halter on
b. : hang
2. : to put restraint upon : hamper