tie back
A2 neutral separable transitive
In simple words
To use something to hold hair or curtains away from the front, toward the back.
Literal meaning: To tie something so that it goes or stays back — transparent.
Meanings
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."
Grammar: separable
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."
Grammar: separable
Usage notes
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.
Commonly used with
hair curtains drapes vines branches ponytail
Forms
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
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Synonyms
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