1 A2 neutral
To fasten hair away from the face, toward the back of the head, using a band, ribbon, or clip.
"She tied her hair back in a ponytail before starting her run."
separable
tie back
A2 neutral separable transitive
To fasten or secure something (especially hair or curtains) away from the front using a band, ribbon, or tie.
In plain English
To use something to hold hair or curtains away from the front, toward the back.
What does "tie back" mean?
2 meanings, ordered from most common to least. Color-coded by CEFR level.
2 A2 neutral
To fasten curtains or drapes to the side with a decorative band, allowing light in.
"She tied the curtains back to let the morning light fill the room."
separable
Literal vs figurative
Words literally mean
To tie something so that it goes or stays back — transparent.
Actually means
To use something to hold hair or curtains away from the front, toward the back.
Usage tip
Most commonly used with 'hair' or 'curtains'. Very practical, everyday expression. When used with curtains, 'tieback' is also a common noun (the decorative band used to hold curtains open). British and American English both use this expression equally.
Words that pair with "tie back"
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
hair curtains drapes vines branches ponytail
How to conjugate "tie back"
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
Base
tie back
I/you/we/they
3rd person
ties back
he/she/it
Past simple
tied back
yesterday
Past participle
tied back
have + pp
-ing form
tiing back
continuous
Hear "tie back" in the wild
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Other ways to say "tie back"
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Keep exploring
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