catch-rope

noun3

1. •
   The rope that a cowboy uses to rope animals, having a loop on one end with which to capture the animal.

   • The rifle ball hit the catch-rope two feet from Buck's saddle horn. — 1988
2. •
   A rope attached to something by which it can be easily grabbed.
3. •
   A rope or cable that acts as an extra means of securing a tram car or similar conveyance should the main cable break.

   • If the head loosens , it is restrained by a wire inside the string — the catchrope — and a red light appears on the control panel . — 2000