Main Entry: ¹rope

Pronunciation: \ˈrōp\

Function: noun

Etymology: Middle English, from Old English rāp; akin to Old High German reif hoop

Date: before 12th century

1 a : a large stout cord of strands of fibers or wire twisted or braided together b : a long slender strip of material used as rope <rawhide rope> c : a hangman's noose d : lariat
2 : a row or string consisting of things united by or as if by braiding, twining, or threading
3 plural : special or basic techniques or procedures <show him the ropes>
4 : line drive

— rope·like \-ˌlīk\ adjective

— on the ropes : in a defensive and often helpless position