noun / verb
lariat
LAIR-ee-ut/ˈlæriət/
A rope with a sliding noose used to catch livestock.
The lariat forms a large sliding loop for catching livestock.
Etymology
Spanish la reata meant “the rope,” specifically one used to tie animals together. The English noun carries the article with it and names a rope used to secure or catch livestock.
In context
Then the Lone Ranger spun his lariat again and expertly looped it about the horn of Jeff Hollins' saddle.
More examples
- She keeps a coiled lariat tied to her saddle.
- The lariat tightens around the steer's neck.
- They lariat the calf so the veterinarian can examine it.
Forms
lariat · lariats · lariated · lariating