noun · a bridle, halter, or headstall used to control a horse

他收紧了手中的勒，马儿慢慢地在集市中停了下来。

idiom · to lead, manage, or command an army or group

将军勒兵归营，严阵以待。

verb · to carve or engrave characters or patterns on stone or metal

他在泰山顶上勒石记功。

measure word · the SI unit of illuminance (an abbreviation for 勒克斯 lè​kè​sī)

这种灯具的照度可以达到一千勒。

verb · to stop or control a horse by pulling the reins

到了悬崖边，他急忙勒住马。

verb · to strap tightly or bind with a rope or cord, often causing discomfort or leaving a mark

绳子勒得手疼。

verb · to compel, coerce, or force someone to act

凶狠的债主勒迫他在三天之内必须把欠款还清。