Definition

Noun: 1. A cord pulled to open a parachute: A cord or handle that, when pulled, releases a parachute from its pack, allowing it to inflate during a descent. 2. A cord pulled to deflate a balloon: A cord that, when pulled, opens a valve or panel on a gasbag (like a hot-air balloon) wide enough to release gas, causing the balloon to descend.

Usage

The word "ripcord" is used specifically in the contexts of parachuting and ballooning. It refers to the primary manual control for initiating a safe descent. - Parachuting Context: The ripcord is a critical safety device. A skydiver pulls the ripcord to deploy the main parachute. - Ballooning Context: The balloonist pulls the ripcord to vent gas and begin a controlled descent.

Examples

• Parachute Context:
  • The skydiver waited until the proper altitude before pulling the ripcord.
  • A malfunctioning ripcord can be a serious emergency for a parachutist.
• Balloon Context:
  • The pilot pulled the ripcord to release hot air and bring the balloon down gently.
  • The balloon's ripcord is typically located in the basket within easy reach.

Advanced Usage

• "Pull the ripcord": This phrase is the standard action for using the device. It can also be used metaphorically to mean initiating an escape or exit from a situation.
  • Metaphorical use: When the project started failing, he decided to pull the ripcord and resign.

Variants and Related Words

• Deployment handle: A more technical term for a parachute's ripcord or a similar activation mechanism.
• Activation cord: A general term for a cord that initiates a mechanical process.
• Parachute release: A descriptive phrase for the function of a ripcord.

Synonyms

• Release cord
• Deployment cord

Related Phrases

• Emergency ripcord: A secondary ripcord used to deploy a reserve parachute if the main one fails.
  • After the main chute tangled, she had to use the emergency ripcord.
• Ripcord housing: The sleeve or container that holds the ripcord in place before use.

Noun

1. a cord that is pulled to open a parachute from its pack during a descent
2. a cord that is pulled to open the gasbag of a balloon wide enough to release gas and so causes the balloon to descend