English Reference

Word

slipknot

Phoneticsslip·knot

UK/slˈɪpknɒt/

Countable noun

Definition

n. a special knot that makes a loop which gets tighter when you pull one end, but comes open easily when you pull the other end. You use it when you need something to hold fast but still come undone quickly.

n. a knot forming an adjustable loop that tightens under tension yet releases readily when the free end is pulled. Typically tied with a bight that allows rapid untying without cutting the rope.

Examples

“She ties a slipknot to hold the bundle together.”

“The sailor uses a slipknot to secure the rope to the dock because he can release it quickly.”

“The climber checked the slipknot twice, knowing the loop would tighten under his weight yet still need to come free with a single pull of the cord.”

Examples

simple

“She ties a slipknot to hold the bundle together.”

contextual

“The sailor uses a slipknot to secure the rope to the dock because he can release it quickly.”

complex

“The climber checked the slipknot twice, knowing the loop would tighten under his weight yet still need to come free with a single pull of the cord.”

Collocations

Common phrases and expressions where native English speakers use the word “slipknot” in context.

Verb

01. loosen slipknot

“Loosen the slipknot slightly so the dog's collar does not chafe.”

verb + noun

02. secure with slipknot

“The crew secured the sail cover with a slipknot for quick release.”

verb + prep + noun

03. slipknot holds

“If tied correctly, the slipknot holds fast yet releases with one pull.”

noun + verb

Adjective

04. loose slipknot

“She left a loose slipknot in the cord so the parcel could be opened quickly.”

adj + noun

05. secure slipknot

“Check that the secure slipknot will not slip under the climber's weight.”

adj + noun

06. simple slipknot

“He secured the tent guyline with a simple slipknot that held firm overnight.”

adj + noun

07. sliding slipknot

“The bracelet uses a sliding slipknot to adjust easily to any wrist size.”

adj + noun

Noun

08. end of slipknot

“Pull the free end of the slipknot to release the whole knot instantly.”

noun + prep + noun

09. loop of slipknot

“Pass the rope through the loop of the slipknot to form a snare.”

noun + prep + noun

10. pull to tighten the slipknot

“Pull the standing line to tighten the slipknot around the package.”

11. release the slipknot quickly

“In an emergency, you can release the slipknot quickly with one hand.”

12. secure with a slipknot

“Secure the hammock with a slipknot for easy adjustment and removal.”

Word family

NOUN

slipknot(C1)

This entry

Exam level
CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.C1 AdvancedIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.7.0–8.0TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 5.0–5.595–113TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.945–990
Frequency
Occasional
Level
C1 · Advanced
Updated

QR code

englishreference.com/q/slipknot

English Reference