harness

 
Pronunciation: /ˈhɑːnɪs/

noun

  • a set of straps and fittings by which a horse or other draught animal is fastened to a cart, plough, etc. and is controlled by its driver.
  • an arrangement of straps for fastening something such as a parachute to a person’s body or for restraining a young child.

verb

[with object]
  • 1put a harness on (a horse or other draught animal): how to groom a horse and harness it the horse was harnessed to two long shafts
  • 2control and make use of (natural resources), especially to produce energy: attempts to harness solar energy figurative projects that harness the creativity of those living in the ghetto

Phrases

in harness

(of a horse or other animal) used for driving or draught work: colts are worked in harness alongside an experienced horse
in the routine of daily work: a man who died in harness far beyond the normal age of retirement
so as to achieve something together: local and central government should work in harness

Derivatives

harnesser

noun

Origin:

Middle English: from Old French harneis 'military equipment', from Old Norse, from herr 'army' + nest 'provisions'