A pullstring is a string or cord wound on a spring-loaded spindle that engages a mechanism when it is pulled. It is most commonly used in toys and motorized equipment.
For example, some dolls have a pullstring built into them that activates a speaker when it is pulled, causing the doll to say a built-in phrase. Also, many motorized lawn mowers use a pullstring as an ignition device. Attic ladders usually have a pullstring to allow the ladder to be pulled down from the ceiling.
Another type of pullstring (referred to as a drawstring) can be used in fashion, mainly used in bags they are used as a closing device and contribute to many aspects of the fashion industry.