Meaning

(ambitransitive, nautical) To make (a rope) fast by turning it around a fastening point such as a cleat..

Definitions by Sense

1. (ambitransitive, nautical) To make (a rope) fast by turning it around a fastening point such as a cleat.
2. (transitive, climbing) To handle a climbing rope to prevent (a climber) from falling to the ground.
3. (transitive) To lay aside; to stop; to cancel.
4. (intransitive, nautical) The general command to stop or cease.
5. (transitive, obsolete) To surround; to environ; to enclose.
6. (transitive, obsolete) To overlay; to adorn.
7. (transitive, obsolete) To besiege; invest; surround.
8. (transitive, obsolete) To lie in wait for in order to attack; block up or obstruct.

Example Sentences

He would need an experienced partner to belay him on the difficult climbs.

I could only hope the remaining piton would belay his fall.

Belay that order!

"We landed in their killbox?" "We did. I am sor... No, belay that. Heads down! Cavalry incoming!"

jacket […] belayd with silver lace

But instead of swapping over at the ice axe belay, you carry on in the lead, cutting or kicking steps until you are about twenty feet above.

Word Forms

• belays
• belaying
• belayed
• belaid

Related Words

When Should You Use Belay?

Use belay when its meaning, tone and grammar fit the full sentence. A synonym is not always a direct replacement.

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