rop·ing I. \ˈrōpiŋ\adjective Etymology: Middle English ropinge, from present participle of (assumed) Middle English ropen to be ropy, from Middle English rope (I) archaic: ropy II. noun (-s) Etymology:rope (I) + -ing 1.: ropes, cordage 2.: boltrope 3.: roving; specifically: a wool sliver delivered from the finisher card ready for spinning