A piece of cord, tape, ribbon, etc. (often used in pairs) for tying up or fastening some portion of dress, for securing a hat or bonnet by being tied…

spec. One of the strings holding up the brim of a shovel-hat. Also a cap-string passing under the chin. Obsolete.

a band for fastening a hat or cap under the chin, also a support for the chin.

(plural) a woman's bonnet- or cap-strings tied under the chin with the ends hanging loose.

In extended use: a strap or band passing under a person's chin or across the throat as part of a piece of clothing or other attire; (spec.) (a) the…

Designating parts of a bonnet or accessories for a bonnet, as bonnet string, bonnet lining, bonnet ribbon, etc.

In plural. On a bonnet or hat: ribbons or streamers which can be tied together under the chin. Now historical and rare.

a cord or cords used to hold a hat in place, typically by attaching the brim of the hat to the wearer's clothing.

(a) = chin-stay n.; (b) Saddlery a strap connecting the throat-strap and nose-band of a halter; (c) as used by women (see quot. 1939).