Tether/ˈteðər/ Definition 1 of 3Pro Tip 1/3Physical Restraint Used to describe actual physical restriction of movement. Farmers often keep goats on a tether in the field. Pro Tip 2/3Safety Measure Implies keeping someone or something within a safe area. The child wore a wrist tether at the amusement park. Pro Tip 3/3Limited Area The length of the tether determines the range of movement. The dog's tether allows it just enough room to reach its shelter.