honda

(? probably from Spanish hondón [ondón] 'eyelet' or 'bottom of a hollow object,' augmentative of hondo < Latin fundum 'bottom, depth.'

   As the DARE notes, hondón may have crossed paths with Spanish honda 'slingshot,' giving rise to this commonly attested form)

   1) West: 1887. A metal or leather ring at one end of a rope through which the other end is looped; also refers to the piece of rope attached to the ring. Whether one ties hard and fast or dallies, the honda forms the slip knot or noose which tightens around the animal that is roped.

   Alternate forms: hindu, hondo, hondoo, hondou, hondu.

   2) Texas: 1894. According to the DARE, the term also refers to a parbuckle (a device consisting of a looped rope to lower or hoist cargo shipboard). Often used to secure casks, spars, and other heavy items. Neither of the above definitions is glossed in Spanish sources.

   Alternate forms: hondoo, hondou.