ribbon

Meanings

1. 1
   noun

   any long object resembling a thin line

   a mere ribbon of land

2. 2
   noun

   A long, narrow strip of material used for decoration of clothing or the hair or gift wrapping.

   A Svveet diſorder in the dreſſe / Kindles in cloathes a vvantonneſſe: / […] / A Cuffe neglectfull, and thereby / Ribbands to flovv confuſedly: / […] / Do more bevvitch me, than vvhen Art / Is too preciſe in every part.

3. 3
   noun

   An awareness ribbon.

   With Monday marking the beginning of October’s annual Breast Cancer Awareness Month observance, supporters will be donning their pink ribbons as a show of support for ongoing research for a cure.

4. 4
   noun

   An inked strip of material against which type is pressed to print letters in a typewriter or printer.

   Late at night, in the typewriter light / Ripped his ribbon to shreds

5. 5
   noun

   A narrow strip or shred.

   a steel or magnesium ribbon

6. 6
   noun

   Reins for a horse.

   "Here, sir, hold the ribbons." This to me, throwing me the reins. Jack got down from his perch, and after a little search in the bush was rewarded by the capture of the poor dazed pigeon, who was consigned to safe custody in the boot.

7. 7
   noun

   A toolbar that incorporates tabs and menus.

   Office programs are drowning in features—and they're crammed into so many different nooks and crannies that even pros don't know where to look. That's where the new ribbon fits in.

8. 8
   noun

   notion consisting of a narrow strip of fine material used for trimming

Etymology

From Middle English riban, ryban, ryband, from Old French riban, ruban ( > modern French ruban), of uncertain origin. Likely from a Germanic compound whose second element is cognate with English band. Compare Middle Dutch ringhband (“necklace”, literally “ring-band”).