in tow

phrase

1
: accompanying or following usually as an attending or dependent party
not easy shopping with kids in tow
2
: under guidance or protection
taken in tow by a friendly native

Examples of in tow in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The couple strolled through Hampstead with their two dogs in tow. — Juliana Ukiomogbe, InStyle, 26 Aug. 2026 When younger brother Naz arrives with an unexpected guest in tow, tensions simmer, eventually boiling over into violence as the family’s dirty secrets are revealed. — Suzanne Van Atten, AJC.com, 24 Aug. 2026 When Big Man arrives with Elena in tow, the diminutive Nora takes down the giant man in less than a minute, all without a bra on! — Erin Qualey, Vulture, 24 Aug. 2026 That’s why having an extra bag in tow can make a world of difference. — Annita Katee, Travel + Leisure, 22 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for in tow

Word History

First Known Use

1722, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of in tow was in 1722

Rhymes for in tow

See All Rhymes for in tow

Browse Nearby Words

in touch
in tow
intower
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“In tow.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/in%20tow. Accessed 1 Sep. 2026.

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Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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