Climb

Definition

Climb is a verb and a noun. As a verb, it means to ascend or move upward, often with effort or by gripping a surface. As a noun, it refers to an act of moving upward or an ascent, typically in hiking or mountaineering.

Parts of Speech

• Verb
• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /klaɪm/
• Respelling: KLYM

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /klaɪm/
• Respelling: KLYM

Etymology

The word "climb" originates from the Old English "climban," meaning "to ascend" or "to mount." This term is related to the Old High German "klimban," with a similar meaning. Over time, the word evolved to include various meanings of upward movement and ascent.

Derivatives

• Climber (noun)
• Climbing (noun/adjective)
• Climbable (adjective)
• Reclimb (verb)
• Climbed (verb, past tense)

Synonyms

• Ascend
• Scale
• Mount

Antonyms

• Descend
• Fall
• Drop

Usage

The term "climb" is widely used in contexts involving physical ascent, such as mountain climbing, and metaphorically to describe rising or advancing in position or status. For example, "She plans to climb Mount Everest," or "He has climbed the career ladder quickly."

Related Terms

• Ascent: The act of moving upward.
• Hike: A long walk, especially in nature, sometimes involving climbing.
• Elevation: The height above a certain reference level, often used in climbing contexts.

Detailed Definitions

Verb

• To move upward, typically using hands and feet: Refers to physically ascending a surface by gripping or holding onto something.
  • Example: "They climbed the steep hill with effort."
• To rise in rank, status, or level: Used metaphorically to describe advancement in position or career.
  • Example: "She hopes to climb to the top of the corporate ladder."

Noun

• An upward journey or ascent: Refers to an act or process of moving to a higher place, often in hiking or mountaineering.
  • Example: "The climb up the mountain took them all day."