noun Uncommon

ascent

uh-SEHNT

Ascent (noun) means the act of climbing or rising, or the route by which one climbs. Example: “The final ascent to the summit took three hours.”

noun

The act of climbing or rising, or the route by which one climbs.

"The final ascent to the summit took three hours."

"Her rapid ascent through the company surprised her colleagues."

How to use ascent

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishA climb or rise — up a mountain, or up through ranks, popularity, or power.

Common mistake

Don't confuse with "assent," which means agreement — the two are pronounced identically.

Easily confused with

ascension → assent →

Common pairings

steep ascent rapid ascent ascent to power

Word forms

ascents plural

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Fill the gap

Can you complete this real example?

The final _____ to the summit took three hours.

Etymology

Formed to match "descent," on the model of the verb pair ascend/descend.

Synonyms

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rise raise rising climb upgrade ascension ascending acclivity

Related words

run death higher fall stand increase kill build

Rhymes for ascent

nascent

See all rhymes for ascent →

Frequently asked questions

What does “ascent” mean?

The word “ascent” means the act of climbing or rising, or the route by which one climbs. In plain terms, a climb or rise — up a mountain, or up through ranks, popularity, or power.

How do you pronounce “ascent”?

“Ascent” is pronounced uh-SEHNT (/əˈsɛnt/ in IPA).

How do you use “ascent” in a sentence?

Here is “ascent” used in a sentence: “The final ascent to the summit took three hours.”

What part of speech is “ascent”?

“Ascent” is a noun.

Is “ascent” a common word?

“Ascent” is an uncommon word in modern English.

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