rope-yarn

A sailor carefully twists a rope-yarn to repair a frayed line.

Definition

1. Noun:
   • A strand of material used for rope-making: "rope-yarn" refers to the individual fibres or threads that are twisted together to form a rope or cord, particularly in a nautical context.
   • A trivial or insignificant thing: In figurative or informal use, "rope-yarn" can denote something of little value or importance, often used in dismissive expressions.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The sailor carefully twisted the rope-yarn to repair the frayed line. (A single strand used in making rope.)
  • Don't worry about that old rope-yarn; it's not worth your time. (A trivial or insignificant object.)

Advanced Usage

• "a rope-yarn" as a metaphor: Used to describe something small or negligible.
  • His contribution was just a rope-yarn compared to the team's overall effort. (His role was minor and unimportant.)

Variants and Related Words

• Rope-yarn (adj): Pertaining to or made of such strands.
  • The rope-yarn mat was rough but durable. (A mat woven from rope strands.)

Synonyms

• Strand: a single thin length of thread or fibre.
• Thread: a fine cord of twisted fibres.
• Trifle: something of little value or importance.

Related Idioms

• "Not worth a rope-yarn": an expression meaning something is utterly worthless.
  • That old ship's log is not worth a rope-yarn. (It has no value at all.)

Phrasal Verbs

• None directly associated with "rope-yarn" as a standalone term.