Rope  —n. 1 a stout cord made by twisting together strands of hemp, wire, etc. B piece of this. 2 (foll. By of) quantity of onions, pearls, etc. Strung together. 3 (prec. By the) a halter for hanging a person. B execution by hanging. —v. (-ping) 1 fasten, secure, or catch with rope. 2 (usu. Foll. By off, in) enclose with rope. 3 mountaineering connect with or attach to a rope.  know (or learn or show) the ropes know (or learn or show) how to do a thing properly. Rope in persuade to take part. Rope into persuade to take part in (roped into washing up). [old english]