lariat

English

Etymology

From Spanish la reata (“the lasso”).

Pronunciation

• IPA^(key): /ˈlæɹɪət/
• Rhymes: -æɹɪət

Noun

lariat (plural lariats)

1. A lasso.
   • Around 1900, O Henry, A Call Loan

     Not so circumscribed in expedient for the reduction of surplus wealth were those lairds of the lariat who had womenfolk to their name.

2. A tether.
3. (wrestling) An attack where the wrestler runs towards an opponent, wraps his arm around their upper chest and neck and then forces them to the ground.

Usage notes

When referring to a long rope with a sliding loop on one end, the term "lasso" is most common among the general public, and "lariat" is also known, but the term "rope" is by far most common among those who practice or spectate modern roping.

Synonyms

• rope
• lasso

Derived terms

• lariat ether

Verb

lariat (third-person singular simple present lariats, present participle lariating, simple past and past participle lariated)

1. (transitive) To lasso.
   • 1880, Ballou's Monthly Magazine, volume 52, page 84:

     Here they dismounted, lariated their horses, in order that they might enjoy the long, green grass growing near the banks of the brook; and bathing their faces in the cool, sparkling water, they partook sparingly of their provisions.

Usage notes

Similar to the noun, while the term "lasso" is most common among the general public, and "lariat" is also known, the term "rope" is by far most common among those who practice or spectate modern roping.

Synonyms

• rope
• lasso

Anagrams

• Altair, atrial, latria, talari