The spelling of the phrase "tie binds" can be confusing as it contains two homophones, "tie" and "tie". The word "tie" referring to an accessory worn around the neck is spelled with the IPA phonetic transcription /taɪ/, while the word "tie" meaning to fasten or secure something is spelled with the IPA phonetic transcription /taɪ/. The phrase "tie binds" uses the latter spelling, meaning that when something is tied, it creates a bond or connection that binds it together.
The term "tie binds" does not have an established etymology. It appears to be a combination of two separate words: "tie" and "binds", each with their own origins.
1. "Tie" comes from the Old English word "tigan", meaning "to bind" or "to fasten". It is derived from the Proto-Germanic word "teuhan", which has the same meaning. This word has been used in English since the 12th century, referring to the act of securing or fastening something using a cord, string, rope, or similar material.
2. "Binds" comes from the Old English word "bindan", meaning "to tie up", "to fasten", or "to make secure". This word has multiple Germanic cognates and can be traced back to the Proto-Germanic word "bindaną".