On the ropes

Meaning

About to lose or close to defeat after sustaining pressure.

Usage

Used broadly when someone is barely holding on.

Origin & History

Origins and dates here are approximate summaries. Many idioms have disputed or unknown origins, and not every date has been checked against a historical dictionary, so treat specific dates and stories as a starting point rather than a citation.

Boxing reference to a fighter pinned against the ropes.

Boxing wire coverage brought the phrase into American journalism by the late 1800s.