Word Origin & History O.E. rap, from P.Gmc. *raipaz (cf. O.N.
reip, M.Du., Du. reep "rope," Goth. skauda-raip "shoe-lace,"
O.H.G., Ger. reif "ring, hoop"). Technically, only cordage above
one inch in circumference and below 10 (bigger-around than that
is a cable). Nautical use varies. Finnish raippa "hoop, rope,
twig" is a Gmc. loan-word. The verb is attested from c.1300. To
know the ropes (1840) is originally a seaman's term. Phrase on
the ropes "defeated" is attested from 1924, a fig. extension
from boxing. To be at the end of (one's) rope "out of resources
and options" is first attested 1686. Formerly also in many slang
and extended uses related to hanging, e.g. John Roper's window
"a noose," rope-ripe "deserving to be hanged," both 16c.