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 day after Israel's modern independence, the armies of Egypt, Syria, Transjordan, Lebanon, and Iraq, with a Saudi contingent in tow, invaded. — Arkansas Online, 23 Oct. 2026 The mix of guests ranges from trendy couples lounging in dressing gowns on a spa break to outdoorsy types wearing messy boots and young families with grandparents in tow on the hunt for some truly fresh air. — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 22 Oct. 2026 One woman, her baby and young daughter in tow, struggled to find the right courtroom. — Kevin Rector, Los Angeles Times, 20 Oct. 2026 Parents checking into a hotel with little ones in tow may think to wipe down the TV remote first, but research and inspector practices point to a few other surfaces worth a quick look at check-in. — Ashley Lynch, Miami Herald, 16 Oct. 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 27 Oct. 2026.

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