A small cord or rope used for securing or suspending is referred to as a what?

A small cord or rope used for securing or suspending is referred to as a lanyard. This term specifically describes a lightweight cord that is often used for holding items such as tools, identification badges, or other equipment securely attached to a person's body or to a fixed point. Lanyards typically allow for easy access to the item while ensuring that it does not get lost or dropped.

The other options do not fit as precisely. A strap generally refers to a flat piece of material, often wider than a cord, used for binding or securing items but does not capture the lightweight aspect of a lanyard. Rope is a much thicker and stronger cord intended for heavy-duty applications and is not typically used for the secure and temporary purposes associated with lanyards. A hook is a device that is used to hold or pull things, but it lacks the function of securing a cord or rope itself. Therefore, the term lanyard is the most appropriate choice in this context.