Lanyards are pieces of rope, wire, or cloth specifically designed to attach to objects. They are typically used to secure small items such as a work badge, key, identification card, eyeglasses, whistle, cell phone, bottle opener, knife, or compass. A lanyard can be worn around the neck, arm, waist or wrist. When worn around the wrist, a lanyard is often referred to as a wristlet.

One typical use of a lanyard is to wear it looped around the neck to secure and display an object that is frequently needed. Securing the object with a neck lanyard keeps it readily available for use, provides easy access to the object, and keeps the hands free. In a business environment, many employees choose to wear lanyards around the neck to display an identification badge or secure keys. A lanyard may also be attached to a belt loop to allow the secured object to be tucked into a pocket.

There are as many lanyard styles available and there are many uses for them. People who like to differentiate themselves from the norm can have a lanyard custom printed or personalized. A lanyard can be as simple and inexpensive as a 3/8 shoelace style cord or as extravagant as a wire strung with expensive crystals and gemstones.

Lanyards are available for purchase through a plethora of suppliers, and many can be found online. The lanyard business is booming, as many large businesses continue to purchase lanyards by the thousands for their employees. Even when custom printed with company names, logos, symbols, or slogans, lanyards are relatively inexpensive. They serve as an effective and convenient source of advertising when worn at trade shows or given away for promotional purposes.

Lanyards have become increasingly popular for their ability to keep important objects close at hand while simultaneously keeping hands free.