Climb: meaning, definitions and examples

Typically used in a general sense for moving upward, usually on foot, hands, or with the aid of tools. Can be used for physical ascents such as mountains or social ascents in a metaphorical sense.

• We decided to climb the mountain this weekend.
• She managed to climb the corporate ladder quickly.

Often used in more formal or technical contexts. It denotes a gradual or progressive upward movement, commonly applied to physical ascents, spiritual journeys, or hierarchical advancement.

• The hot air balloon began to ascend slowly into the sky.
• He will ascend to the throne after the king's abdication.

Frequently used when discussing climbing something lofty or significant, it often connotes overcoming a challenge or reaching a high point. It can be physical or metaphorical.

• The team plans to scale the highest peak in the region.
• He scaled the wall quickly and stealthily.

Used when describing a difficult, awkward, or laborious ascent, often involving scrambling with both hands and feet. It implies a struggle to climb.

• The children clambered over the rocks to reach the cave.
• She clambered up the steep hillside, her legs burning from the effort.

Use when talking about going up something like a mountain, tree, or ladder in a general sense.

• They climbed the mountain together.
• She climbed the ladder to reach the top shelf.

Use when referring to the action of rising upward, often used in a more formal or technical context, such as in mountaineering or aviation.

• The ascent to the summit was steep and challenging.
• The airplane began its ascent after takeoff.

Use when describing the action of climbing with difficulty, often using both hands and feet, usually in an awkward manner.

• The children were clambering over the rocks near the beach.
• He was clambering up the steep hill, slipping on the loose gravel.

Use when describing the action of climbing quickly and with difficulty, often involving hands and knees, usually when the terrain is rough or uneven.

• They had to scramble over large boulders to reach the cave entrance.
• The hikers scrambled up the rocky path to avoid the incoming tide.