in tow
following closely behind someone or something

[TahlilGaran] Dictionary of Contemporary English ▲

in tow
following or going along under someone's control.
She usually goes shopping with her three children in tow.

Etymology: based on the literal meaning of a vehicle or ship in tow (= being pulled with a rope or chain)

[TahlilGaran] English Idioms Dictionary ▲

in tow
1. being pulled
The truck had a trailer in tow when it went off the highway.

2. being taken from place to place, going along with someone
She spent the morning at the shopping center with her child in tow.

[TahlilGaran] English Idioms Dictionary ▲

in tow
adj. phr.
1. Being pulled.
The tugboat had the large ocean liner in tow as they came into the harbor.
An engine came with a long string of cars in tow.
2. Being taken from place to place; along with someone.
Janet took the new girl in tow and showed her where to go.
Mrs. Hayes went to the supermarket with her four little children in tow.

[TahlilGaran] English Idioms Dictionary ▲