A pull cord is a mechanism that operates a device by means of pulling a cord. Common examples include:

* Cords connected to the built in switch of an electric [[lamp]] particularly common on certain types of [[ceiling light]]s.
* Cords that would wind up the voice mechanism of older mechanical talking [[doll]]s and [[toy]]s. These often have a ring-shaped handle. 
* Cords used for starting small engines without a starter motor (e.g. on a [[lawnmower|push-mower]] or [[chainsaw]]). These often have a T-shaped handle.