rip-cord

A skydiver pulls the rip-cord to open the parachute.

Definition

1. Noun:
   • A cord used to open a parachute: "rip-cord" refers to a cord or lanyard that, when pulled, releases a parachute from its pack, allowing it to deploy.
   • A safety release cord: In other contexts, such as on emergency equipment or aircraft, a "rip-cord" is a cord that activates a safety mechanism, like deploying an emergency chute or opening an escape hatch.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • Before jumping, the skydiver checked his rip-cord to ensure it was secure. (The cord that opens the parachute.)
  • She pulled the rip-cord on her emergency backpack, releasing a small parachute. (A safety release cord.)

Advanced Usage

• "to pull the rip-cord": to activate a parachute or safety mechanism; also used metaphorically to mean taking decisive action to escape a difficult situation.
  • When the plane began to fail, the pilot pulled the rip-cord and ejected safely. (Activated the parachute.)
  • After years of stress, he finally pulled the rip-cord and quit his job. (Metaphorically: escaped a bad situation.)

Variants and Related Words

• Rip-cord (also spelled "ripcord"): the same noun, often written as one word.

  • The ripcord was stiff from lack of use. (Alternative spelling.)

• Rip-cord handle (n): the handle attached to the rip-cord for easier pulling.

  • He gripped the rip-cord handle firmly before jumping. (The part of the cord that is pulled.)

Synonyms

• Release cord: a cord that releases a mechanism.
• Lanyard: a rope or cord used for activation (often in parachutes or emergency systems).

Phrasal Verbs

• Pull the rip-cord: to activate the rip-cord.
  • She pulled the rip-cord just in time to slow her fall. (Activated the parachute.)

Related Idioms

• Pull the rip-cord on something: to end or abandon a situation abruptly.
  • Investors pulled the rip-cord on the failing project. (Ended the project suddenly.)