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Definition of ripcord

ripcord

/ˈrɪp.kɔːrd/
rip · cord
Plural:ripcords
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ripcord Lexical Profile

ripcord Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

A cord or cable that is pulled by a skydiver or parachutist to release a parachute from its pack during a descent.

Example

"The instructor reminded the novice skydivers to check the placement of their ripcord handles before boarding the aircraft."

2

A rope or cable attached to the envelope of a hot-air or gas balloon, pulled to tear open a panel and rapidly release gas or hot air upon landing.

Example

"As the basket touched down in the windy pasture, the pilot pulled the ripcord to deflate the balloon quickly."

• Rhymes for ripcord

• Nearby Words

riotous
riotously
rip
ripcord
ripe
ripen
ripeness

Word Origin & Etymology

First recorded in the late 19th century, the word combines 'rip' and 'cord', originally referring to the emergency line used by balloonists to tear open a gasbag for a rapid descent before being adopted for parachute deployment.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Ripcord. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/ripcord
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