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.
Derivatives:
cordlike adj.
Etymology: ME f. OF corde f. L chorda f. Gk khorde gut, string of musical instrument