What does lasso mean?
A lasso is a long rope formed into a loop that can be tightened by pulling on one end. It is traditionally used to catch animals such as cattle, horses, or calves, and the verb “lasso” means to catch or restrain an animal in this way. The best-known image is that of a skilled rider throwing the loop over an animal's neck, particularly in the ranching traditions of the American West, although the word is not limited to that setting. In broader figurative use, it can describe pulling someone or something into a group or situation, as when a host says they must “lasso” several guests into the conversation. The word comes from Spanish lazo, meaning “knot” or “bow,” and ultimately from a Latin term for a snare or noose. Its enduring appeal lies in the vivid image of the loop tightening around a moving target.
A long rope or cord with a sliding loop that tightens when pulled, used especially for catching or restraining animals.
"The cowboy coiled his lasso and rode toward the stray horse."
Also spelled “lariat” in some contexts, though the two words are not always used interchangeably.
To catch, restrain, or pull an animal using a lasso.
"Two cowboys lassoed the steer on the open range."
The usual inflected forms are “lassoed” and “lassoing.” The verb can also be used figuratively for drawing someone or something into a group or situation.
“Lassos” is the clearest plural form; “lasses” is also established in standard usage.
"He carried several lassos over his shoulder."
The lasso entered English from Spanish lazo, meaning “knot” or “bow,” and became closely associated with ranching and cattle handling in the American West.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of lasso
English borrowed the word from Spanish lazo, a term associated with knotting and binding and later with ranching techniques in the Americas. Spanish lazo continues Latin laqueus, meaning “snare,” “noose,” or “binding.” The same Latin root also underlies words such as lace and, more distantly, lacer and lacerate.
Related word forms
How lasso is actually used
The word is especially associated with ranching and the American West but is understood in British and US English. In figurative use, “lasso” can mean to draw someone or something into a group, situation, or conversation, though this use is less common.