bead
bead
/ˈbiːd/ noun , pl beads [ count ]
1 : a small, usually round piece of glass, wood, stone, etc., that has a hole through its center and that is put on a string with other similar pieces and worn as jewelry or that is sewn onto clothing
a string of beads
She was wearing beads. [=a necklace of beads]
2 : a small, round drop of liquid (such as water or blood)
Beads of sweat began rolling/running down their faces.
draw a bead on (
: to aim at (someone or something)
He lifted the rifle and carefully drew a bead on the target.
— often used figuratively
The government is drawing a bead on inflation. [=is targeting inflation]
It's hard to get a bead on [=to understand] the reasons for her decision.
