This is the 9718th most frequent Spanish word.
atar
To tie.
Here, 'atar' means to tie or fasten something (the cables) together.
Necesito atar los cables para que no se enreden.
I need to tie the cables so they don't get tangled.
In this sentence, 'atar' is used metaphorically to imply completing or solving incoherent parts or issues in a task.
Debemos atar los cabos sueltos antes de presentar el proyecto.
We must tie up loose ends before presenting the project.
Here, 'atar' describes the physical action of securing a rope to an object.