First Known Use: before 12th century
Dictionary
1rope
noun \ˈrōp\
: a strong, thick string that is made by twisting many thin strings or fibers together
: a string on which a number of similar things are held together
the ropes : the special way things are done at a particular place or in a particular activity
Full Definition of ROPE
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
— rope·like \-ˌlīk\ adjective
— on the ropes
: in a defensive and often helpless position
See rope defined for English-language learners
See rope defined for kids
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Origin of ROPE
Middle English, from Old English rāp; akin to Old High German reif hoop
2rope
verb
: to bind, fasten, or tie (something or someone) with a rope
: to catch (an animal) by throwing a circle of rope around it
: to use clever or tricky methods to get (someone) to do something
ropedrop·ing
Full Definition of ROPE
transitive verb
1
a : to bind, fasten, or tie with a rope or cord b : to partition, separate, or divide by a rope <rope off the street> c : lasso
2
: to draw as if with a rope : lure
intransitive verb
: to take the form of or twist in the manner of rope
— rop·er noun
See rope defined for English-language learners
First Known Use of ROPE
14th century
ROPE[1] Defined for Kids
1rope
noun \ˈrōp\
Definition of ROPE for Kids
1
: a strong thick cord of strands (as of fiber or wire) twisted or braided together
2
: a number of similar things held together on a string
2rope
verb
ropedrop·ing
Definition of ROPE for Kids
1
: to bind, fasten, or tie with a cord
2
: to set off or divide by a cord <Police roped off a street.>
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