What does rope mean?
A rope is a long, flexible cord formed from twisted or braided strands. It serves many practical purposes: securing a load, tying a boat to a dock, climbing a cliff, pulling equipment, or fastening a tent. As a verb, 'rope' means to tie or fasten something, as when a sailor ropes a sail to a mast, and can also describe restraining someone or handling an animal with a rope. The word also has figurative uses. A relationship or livelihood may be described as a lifeline, while a restrictive obligation may be imagined as a rope around someone’s neck. In informal American English, 'rope' can mean to criticize or enthusiastically praise someone, as in 'the critics roped him.' Because rope is one of the oldest and most versatile tools, the word appears in maritime, climbing, agricultural, industrial, and everyday expressions.
A long, flexible cord made by twisting or braiding together strands of material, used for fastening, pulling, lifting, climbing, or securing objects.
"The rescue team lowered a rope into the cavern."
Also used figuratively for a connection, means of support, or constraint.
To tie, fasten, secure, restrain, or entangle someone or something with a rope; also, to handle or move something using a rope.
"He roped the bundle to the back of the truck."
In informal American English, can also mean to criticize someone sharply or enthusiastically.
The plural is ropes when referring to multiple cords or lengths of rope.
"The climbers arranged the ropes along the wall."
From climbing anchors to old sailing ships, a rope is one of humanity’s simplest tools—and one of its most useful inventions.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does rope come from?
The English word rope comes from Old English rāp, meaning a cord or line. The Germanic forms Old Norse reip and Old Frisian rīp show that the word was widespread in the early Germanic languages. Its deeper origin is associated with a European word for a flexible cord or branch, although the exact prehistoric reconstruction and chronology are less certain.
Related word forms
How rope is actually used
The noun is neutral and common in both formal and informal contexts. 'Rope' can have a figurative, often negative or constraining sense in phrases such as 'noose' or 'a rope around one's neck'; in American English, 'rope someone' may also mean to criticize them sharply or enthusiastically, a usage that is informal and context-dependent.
Easily confused with rope
As a noun, a rope is a physical cord used for fastening, pulling, climbing, or securing objects, whereas the verb 'rope' describes tying someone or something up.
The expression 'rope a range' means to cover a wide area, whereas 'rope' by itself can refer to the physical cord or to the act of tying something with one.