Which of the following terms best describes the construction of wire ropes with respect to their strands?

The term that best describes the construction of wire ropes in relation to their strands is 'laid.' In wire rope construction, strands, which are made up of a number of individual wires, are twisted together and then laid together to form the final rope. The laying process can involve different configurations such as right-handed or left-handed twists, which contribute to the rope’s strength, flexibility, and overall performance.

This method ensures that the load is distributed evenly across the strands and increases the rope's resistance to wear and fatigue. The interlacing of strands through the laying process creates a strong and durable rope suitable for various applications, including rigging, lifting, and mooring in construction and industrial settings.

Other methods mentioned, such as splicing, weaving, or knotting, refer to different techniques not typically associated with the primary construction process of wire ropes, which makes 'laid' the most accurate and suitable term for describing how the strands are configured in wire rope.