1 B1 neutral
To fasten an animal to a fixed outdoor point with a rope or lead so it can move within a radius.
"She tied the dog out in the garden while she cleaned the kitchen."
separable
tie out
B1 neutral separable transitive
To tether an animal outdoors to a fixed point with a rope or lead, allowing it to move within a limited area.
In plain English
To tie a dog or other animal to something outside so it can move around a little but can't run away.
What does "tie out" mean?
One main meaning — here's how to use it.
Literal vs figurative
Words literally mean
To tie something so that it is out (outside) — transparent.
Actually means
To tie a dog or other animal to something outside so it can move around a little but can't run away.
Usage tip
Most commonly used for dogs. More common in American English. Implies the animal is left unsupervised outdoors. Some animal welfare organisations advise against leaving animals tied out for long periods. Also used in agriculture for larger animals such as horses or goats.
Words that pair with "tie out"
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
dog horse goat lead rope yard
How to conjugate "tie out"
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
Base
tie out
I/you/we/they
3rd person
ties out
he/she/it
Past simple
tied out
yesterday
Past participle
tied out
have + pp
-ing form
tiing out
continuous
Hear "tie out" in the wild
Listen to native speakers using "tie out" in real YouTube videos — click a clip to watch it on Looplines.
Other ways to say "tie out"
Swap in when you want variety — tap a linked one to explore it.
chain fasten leash secure tether
Keep exploring
Jump to every phrasal verb built on the same verb, particle, or level.