A strap is a long, narrow strip of flexible material (usually leather, fabric, or plastic) used to fasten, carry, or hold something in place. Your backpack has straps that go over your shoulders to distribute the weight. A watch strap wraps around your wrist and buckles to keep the watch secure. Guitar straps let musicians hang their instruments comfortably while playing standing up.

Straps work because they're strong enough to hold weight but flexible enough to wrap around things or adjust to different sizes. A seatbelt is technically a type of strap designed to keep you safe in a car. Helmets have chin straps. Even sandals often have straps that cross over your feet.

The word can also be a verb meaning to fasten with a strap. You might strap on safety gear before skateboarding, or strap yourself into a roller coaster seat. When someone says they need to strap in for something, they often mean they should prepare for an intense or wild experience ahead.