ENGLISH
REFERENCE

abseiling

v.
B2 Upper Intermediate UK //ˈæbseɪlɪŋ// ab·seil·ing

v. to move down a steep surface, like a rock wall or a building, using a special rope and equipment. You control your speed as you go.

v. to descend a vertical or near-vertical surface using a rope and friction device to control the rate of descent. Often used in climbing or rescue operations.


SIMPLE

The climbers are abseiling down the cliff.

CONTEXTUAL

Firefighters had to abseil down the side of the skyscraper to reach the trapped residents on the tenth floor.

COMPLEX

While rock climbing requires significant upper body strength, abseiling demands a high degree of technical skill and mental focus to manage the rope and friction device safely.

Synonyms

© 2026 English Reference