Pronunciation: /bəˈleɪ/

Definitions of belay

noun a device used to secure a rope in rock climbing or sailing

Example Sentences

A1 I need to learn how to tie a belay knot for rock climbing.

A2 The belay device is essential for ensuring safety during climbing.

B1 The belay system failed, causing the climber to fall.

B2 The experienced climber acted as the belay for the novice on the rock face.

C1 The belay anchor was securely fastened to the rock wall to support the weight of the climber.

C2 The belay technique used by the expert climber was flawless, allowing for a smooth ascent.

verb to secure a rope to a fixed point to protect a climber

Example Sentences

A1 Please belay the rope while I climb.

A2 I learned how to belay properly during my rock climbing class.

B1 It is important to belay your partner when rock climbing to ensure their safety.

B2 The experienced climber belayed the novice climber as they made their way up the cliff.

C1 The belay device is an essential piece of equipment for any serious climber.

C2 As the lead climber, it is your responsibility to belay your partner effectively.

Examples of belay in a Sentence

formal The climber used a belay device to ensure safety while ascending the steep rock face.

informal Make sure to belay me when I start climbing so I don't fall!

slang I'll belay you, bro, don't worry about it.

figurative The safety measures acted as a belay, preventing any potential risks from escalating.

Grammatical Forms of belay

past tense

belayed

plural

belays

comparative

more belay

superlative

most belay

present tense

belay

future tense

will belay

perfect tense

have belayed

continuous tense

is belaying

singular

belay

positive degree

belay

infinitive

belay

gerund

belaying

participle

belaying

Origin and Evolution of belay

First Known Use: 1601 year
Language of Origin: Old French
Story behind the word: The word 'belay' originated from Old French 'belayer' meaning 'to hold, to secure'. It was commonly used in maritime settings.
Evolution of the word: Over time, the word 'belay' has expanded its meaning beyond maritime contexts to include securing or stopping something in various situations, such as rock climbing or mountain climbing.