rope

rope [rōp]

n.

[ME rop < OE rap, akin to Ger reif (Goth raip) < IE * reip-, rag, piece of cloth < base * rei-, to tear > REAP, REEF²]

1. a thick, strong cord made of intertwisted strands of fiber, thin wires, leather strips, etc.

2. [pl.] such cords strung between posts to enclose a boxing ring

3.

a) such a cord, or a noose made of it, for hanging a person

b) death by hanging: with the

4. LASSO

5.

a) a length, esp. a thick, flexible length, of something [a rope of taffy, a rope of hair]

b) a ropelike string of things put together by or as by twisting, twining, braiding, or threading [a rope of pearls]

6. a ropelike, sticky formation in a liquid, as in wine

vt.

roped, roping

1. to fasten, tie, or confine with or as with a rope

2. to connect or tie together (esp. mountain climbers) by a rope

3. to separate, mark off, or enclose with a rope: usually with in, off, or out

☆ 4. to catch or throw with a lasso

vi.

to become ropelike and sticky [to cook candy until it ropes]

——————

give someone enough rope or give someone rope

to allow someone freedom of action in the expectation that that person will overreach himself or herself

——————

know the ropes

Informal to be fully acquainted with the details or procedures of something

——————

on the ropes

1. Boxing knocked against the ropes

2. Slang near collapse or ruin

——————

☆ rope in

Slang to entice or trick into doing something

——————

the end of one's rope

the end of one's endurance, resources, etc.

roper

n.