verb

harness

to harness, to control and make use of, to put a harness on

We must harness the power of the sun.

We must harness the power of the sun.

He harnessed the horse to the cart.

He harnessed the horse to the cart.

((sth.)) to control and make use of (a natural force or resource) Scientists are trying to harness wind power.

Synonyms: utilize, exploit, control, channel

From Old Norse 'hernest' (provisions for an army). The meaning shifted to army equipment, then horse equipment, then the verb to put it on, and finally to control/utilize.

Imagine putting a 'harness' (the equipment) on a powerful horse to control its energy. Similarly, you 'harness' natural forces like wind or sun to use their power.

This page is designed for learning support. Please use it as a learning reference, not as a formal reference.