# abseiling

/ˈæbseɪlɪŋ/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Verb

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

## Definition

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.

For teachers: 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.

## Examples

- The climbers are abseiling down the cliff.
- Firefighters had to abseil down the side of the skyscraper to reach the trapped residents on the tenth floor.
- 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.

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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.