# abseil

/ˈæbseɪl/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/abseil
Updated: 2026-05-18

## Definition

a way to climb down a rock face or a tall building by using a rope. You control your speed by letting the rope run through your hands.

For teachers: the act of descending a vertical surface using a rope and a friction device. Often used in climbing or rescue operations to control the rate of descent.

## Examples

- The climbers used an abseil to reach the bottom of the cliff.
- The rescue team performed a controlled abseil down the side of the skyscraper to reach the stranded hikers.
- While the ascent required significant physical strength, the abseil was a more technical maneuver that demanded precise control of the friction device to prevent a sudden fall.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.