climb
climb · verb
Definitions
verb
- 1.
To go up or ascend, especially using hands and feet.
- 2.
An act of climbing; an ascent.
- 3.
To move with effort into or out of something.
- 4.
A place to be climbed.
- 5.
To rise gradually to a higher point or level.
- 6.
(of plants) To grow upward by twining or attaching to a support.
Phrases & expressions
- •climb the ladder — advance in a career or social standing
- •climb the walls — be extremely frustrated or restless
- •uphill climb — a difficult endeavor
- •climb down — descend; retreat from a position
- •social climber — someone who seeks higher social status
Related words
Etymology
From Old English "climban" (to climb), of Germanic origin. The silent "b" was added in the 16th century by analogy with words like "dumb" and "lamb."