Definitions

1. noun

an emergency cord in an aircraft, typically in a parachute, that is released to deploy the parachute

“The pilot had to pull the ripcord to deploy the parachute before hitting the ground.”

2. noun

a device for releasing a parachute or other type of safety system

“The skydiver’s ripcord was tangled, causing him to fall slowly to the ground.”

3. verb

to release the cord of a parachute, typically in order to deploy it

“She ripped the cord to deploy her parachute and land safely.”