n.
- a rope or strap placed around the head of an animal and used to lead or tether it.
▸archaic a noose for hanging a person.
- a strap passing behind the neck by which the bodice of a sleeveless dress or top is held in place.
v.
- put a halter on (an animal).
- archaic hang (someone).
Etymology
OE hælftre, of Gmc origin, meaning ‘something to hold things by’; rel. to helve.