ropy

[ roh-pee ]

adjective

, rop·i·er, rop·i·est.

1. resembling a rope or ropes:

   ropy muscles.

2. forming viscid or glutinous threads, as a liquid.

Other Words From

• ropi·ly adverb
• ropi·ness noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of ropy¹

First recorded in 1470–80; rope + -y ¹

Example Sentences

Objectively, I know that the defeated ones are in almost every other regard already winners: fit gods with ropy quads, admired, adored and no doubt absurdly well compensated.

From New York Times

The aberrant proteins convert normal prions to their malevolent shape as they add them, like rungs on a ladder, to growing, ropy aggregates that destroy neurons, effectively chewing holes in the brain.

From Science Magazine

It crashed into the monster, knocking it over in a tangle of legs and ropy appendages.

From Literature

The Turkish leader faces a tough election battle in mid-May with a ropy economy and high inflation, as well as criticism about his government’s handling of the recent devastating earthquake.

From New York Times

A self-described product of the 1960s who, with his ropy ponytail and bushy mustache, certainly looked the part, Dr. Prados was both a scholar and an activist.

From New York Times

Related Words

• athletic
• brawny
• burly
• powerful
• robust
• sinewy
• stout
• strapping
• sturdy
• vigorous
• wiry