tow
This term evokes the physical strain of moving a heavy, immobile object through a medium like asphalt or water. It implies a dependency where one entity provides the motive power for another that is either disabled or designed to be passive. In a commercial sense, it refers to the professional service of vehicle recovery. When referring to the material fibers of flax or hemp, the word describes a coarse, raw texture used for industrial stuffing or rope production. This specific sense is distinct from the mechanical action of pulling and is used primarily in textile or historical contexts.
Meanings
To pull a vehicle, boat, or other heavy object along the ground or water using a rope, chain, or tow bar.
"The truck had to tow the broken-down car to the garage."
To be pulled along by another vehicle or vessel.
"The small sailboat was towing behind the motorboat."
A rope, chain, or cable used for pulling a vehicle or boat.
"He attached a tow to the bumper of the car."