n. & v.
--n.
1. a loop with a running knot, tightening as the rope or wire is pulled, esp. in a snare, lasso, or hangman's halter.
2 a snare or bond.
3 joc. the marriage tie.
--v.tr.
1. catch with or enclose in a noose, ensnare.
2 a make a noose on (a cord). b (often foll. by round) arrange (a cord) in a noose.
Phrases and idioms:
put one's head in a noose bring about one's own downfall.
Etymology: ME nose, perh. f. OF no(u)s f. L nodus knot