What is the term used to refer to the working end of a rope?

The term "running end" is used to refer to the working end of a rope because it is the portion of the rope that is actively being used to do the work, such as lifting, pulling, or tying. When using a rope, the running end is the part that is manipulated to apply force or to create a knot, while the other ends of the rope serve different functions (like anchoring or tying off). Understanding this terminology is essential for effective communication and safety when working with ropes in various applications, such as rigging, lifting, and hoisting in electrical work and other trades.

In contrast, the tail end refers to the part that is not actively being used for the desired task, and the free end is typically associated with the end of the rope that is exposed and unanchored, which can be confused with the running end. The loop end is more related to specific configurations of the rope, such as when a loop is created for a knot or joining purposes, but does not represent the working portion in most contexts.