Gar·ter n.
 1. A band used to prevent a stocking from slipping down on the leg.
 2. The distinguishing badge of the highest order of knighthood in Great Britain, called the Order of the Garter, instituted by Edward III.; also, the Order itself.
 3. Her. Same as Bendlet.
 Garter fish Zool., a fish of the genus Lepidopus, having a long, flat body, like the blade of a sword; the scabbard fish.
 Garter king-at-arms, the chief of the official heralds of England, king-at-arms to the Order of the Garter; -- often abbreviated to Garter.
 Garter snake Zool., one of several harmless American snakes of the genus Eutænia, of several species (esp. E. saurita and E. sirtalis); one of the striped snakes; -- so called from its conspicuous stripes of color.