noun
1. : a cord by which the gasbag of a balloon may be ripped open for a limited distance to release the gas quickly and so cause immediate descent
2. : a cord or wire pulled manually or automatically in making a descent to release the pilot parachute which lifts the main parachute out of its container ready to open
3.
a. : a cord inserted longitudinally in a sheathed electric cable for use in ripping the sheath at the ends for easier removal (as in making connections)
b. : an electric cord consisting of two individually insulated wires readily separable by ripping usually for a short distance to make a connection