■ noun
1》 a length of stout cord made by twisting together strands of hemp, sisal, nylon, etc.
↘( the ~s ) the ~s enclosing a boxing or wrestling ring.
↘( the ~ ) execution by hanging.
2》 a quantity of roughly spherical objects strung together.
3》 ( the ~s ) informal the established procedures in an organization or area of activity: I showed her the ~s.
■ verb
1》 catch, fasten, or secure with ~.
↘ Climbing (of a party of climbers) connect each other together with a ~.
2》 ( ~ someone in/into ) persuade someone, despite reluctance, to take part in.
Phrases
on the ~s
1》 Boxing forced against the ~s by the opponent's attack.
2》 in a state of near collapse.
a ~ of sand literary illusory security.
Derivatives
roping noun
Origin
OE rāp , of Gmc origin.