belay
0 synonyms and 0 antonyms for belay, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Verb — In climbing, to hold and control the rope so that a falling climber is caught safely.
We haven't recorded synonyms for belay yet. You can still read its full definition, where it comes from, or words that rhyme with it.
How to use belay
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
Etymology
From Old English beleccgan, "to lay around, secure" — built from be- ("around") plus lay, later specialised into rope and climbing use.
Full origin of belay →Frequently asked questions
What does “belay” mean?
The word “belay” means in climbing, to hold and control the rope so that a falling climber is caught safely. In plain terms, to secure a rope so someone or something is held safe, or as a command, to stop and undo an order.
How do you pronounce “belay”?
“Belay” is pronounced BEE-lay (/bɪˈleɪ/ in IPA).
How do you use “belay” in a sentence?
Here is “belay” used in a sentence: “She belayed her partner carefully as he worked his way up the cliff face.”
What part of speech is “belay”?
“Belay” is a verb.
Where does the word “belay” come from?
The word “belay” comes from Old English. From Old English beleccgan, "to lay around, secure" — built from be- ("around") plus lay, later specialised into rope and climbing use.
How many meanings does “belay” have?
“Belay” has 3 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: in climbing, to hold and control the rope so that a falling climber is caught safely.