Definition

A cord that is pulled to activate a mechanism, such as releasing a parachute or inflating a balloon.

Example

He pulled the ripcord to open his parachute safely during the jump.

Conversation

Did you see how he pulled the ripcord right before landing?

Yeah, that was so smooth!

I always thought it looked so scary to jump out of a plane.

It is a bit scary, but pulling the ripcord must feel incredible!

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Ripcord → The word is formed from "rip" (from Old English "ripan", meaning to tear or pull apart) and "cord" (from Latin "chorda", meaning a string or rope). The term "ripcord" refers to a cord that, when pulled, tears or releases something, typically used in parachutes to deploy them.

Memory Tip

Think of 'tearing' ('rip') something apart with a 'string' ('cord') — that's how a ripcord works to release or deploy.

Visually Confused Words