Ropes
/roʊps/
Definitions
2 meaningsThick cords made by twisting strands of material, used for various purposes like fastening, pulling, or hanging.
/roʊps/
Strong cords of twisted fibers
The ship was tied to the dock with thick ropes.
💡 Simply: Ropes are like super-strong strings, but much thicker! We use them to tie things up, climb mountains (with special ropes!), or play games.
👶 For kids: Ropes are like big, strong strings that are made of twisted stuff. You can use them to pull things, climb things, or tie things together!
More Examples
The mountaineers used ropes to ascend the steep cliff face.
He tied the packages together with a length of rope.
How It's Used
"The sailors used ropes to secure the ship to the dock."
"Climbers rely on strong ropes for safety."
"The children used ropes to swing on the tree."
To secure, tie, or fasten something or someone with a rope, or to involve someone in something.
/roʊps/
To tie or fasten with a rope
The cowboys roped the cattle before branding them.
💡 Simply: Roping means using a rope to tie something up! Think of cowboys roping cows! It can also mean tricking someone to get them to help you.
👶 For kids: Ropes can also mean to tie something up with a rope. Like when you rope a pony.
More Examples
She roped her friends into helping with the charity event.
The security guards roped off the crime scene.
How It's Used
"They roped the horses to the fence."
"The politician roped in several new supporters."
Idioms & expressions
the ropes
The practical details or procedures of a task or activity.
"It took her a while to learn the ropes of her new job."
know the ropes
To be familiar with the details of a job, business, or activity.
"After working here for a year, she finally knows the ropes."
From Middle English *ropes*, plural of rope, from Old English *rāp* 'rope'.
The word 'rope' has been used since Old English times, originally referring to a cord or line made of twisted fibers. Its usage has consistently maintained this core meaning.
Memory tip
Think of the *ropes* in a ship or when climbing, used to hold things together.
Word Origin
"rāp - a rope, cord"