By definition, a lanyard can be described as a rope or cord worn around the neck to carry an object. In nautical terms, a lanyard is a piece of rigging used aboard a ship used to secure heavy objects.  Lanyards of diverse color arrangements are commonly draped over the shoulders of British and Commonwealth military uniforms to signify affiliation. A pistol lanyard is created to secure a pistol grip to a uniform temporarily. A well-constructed pistol lanyard is a must have in any emergency, for it prevents the pistol from falling.

Presently and most commonly, the lanyard is used to hold and display identification cards for businesses, schools, special events, and other circumstances in which a name badge or id card is required. A lanyard can be comfortably used to carry small pieces such as keys and key chains, cell phones and cell phone holders, eye glasses, and sports wear. Vinyl key ring lanyards are used to tote all varieties of keys. Wrist and wristband lanyards have also become a hit. The lanyard has also started to arise on certain electronics devices. Several notable MP3 players and digital cameras include lanyards, which supply convenience and portability.

The lanyard is a popular choice because it easily and securely displays photo identification cards. Lanyards are customarily suspended from the neck, and make the hassles of holding onto an ID card a thing of the past. Numerous schools, college and university students, government offices and factories are required to wear safety lanyards.  Lanyards are ideal for the typical security access systems, and make the usual daily struggle of logging in and out effortless. With the design and strength of the lanyard, it is almost impossible to lose your ID card. The neck lanyard is the most commonly worn and easiest to wear. Many factories manufacture custom lanyards equipped with safety breakaways, which can be worn on the wrist, arm, waist or neck for protection. Lanyards are now offered with a large selection of clasps and attachments, for both safety and convenience. Clasps are available in velcro breakaway, breakaway snap, bulldog clip, swivel hook, rubber ring, and mylar strap just to name a few.

A typical lanyard can be made in a wide variety of designs and materials, ranging from simple and tame, to outrageous, bold and beaded. Canvas and cloth lanyards remain the popular selection, with plastic and vinyl following close behind. The personalized lanyard has become a favorite way to spread a special message to the masses. This unique message can be a company logo, school mascot, web site address, promotional advertisement, or special event. Personalize lanyards are available with selected colors, logos, hardware attachments, and size of straps. A wide choice of lanyard webbing pantone matching colors including classic black, red, blue, and yellow are usually accessible at most manufacturers, as well as specialty colors such as, teal, neon orange, neon yellow, hot pink and burgundy. As the desire and need for lanyards grow, so will the color and design availability.