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reata

Reata, riata, or lariat refers to a long rope used by stockmen to catch and control livestock. Traditionally made from hemp or cotton, modern versions may use nylon or polyester. The rope is thrown in a loop, or noose, and used to snag cattle, horses, or other animals. In the American West and parts of Mexico, the terms reata and riata are common, and the technique is a hallmark of cowboy and vaquero culture. The word frequently appears in literature and film, where it evokes ranching traditions and frontier imagery.

The term derives from the Spanish riata, meaning rope. In English-language usage, both spellings—reata and riata—are

As a proper noun, Reata is used as a place name in some regions and as a

See also: Riata, Lariat.

found,
and
riata
can
also
denote
the
act
of
lariating
or
the
rope
itself
in
certain
contexts.
surname.
It
is
also
adopted
by
businesses
and
organizations
for
branding,
particularly
those
seeking
associations
with
ranching
heritage
or
the
American
West.