# ascending

/əˈsɛndɪŋ/ (US) · /ɐsˈɛndɪŋ/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/ascending
Updated: 2026-05-04

## Definition

moving or going upwards. You use it to describe something rising in height, rank, or amount.

For teachers: moving or directed upwards; increasing in degree, rank, or value. Typically used attributively before a noun or predicatively after a linking verb.

## Examples

- The plane is ascending into the clouds.
- The company reported ascending profits for the third quarter in a row.
- As the hikers began their ascending journey up the steep ridge, the air grew thinner and the temperature dropped significantly.

## Usage notes

- Often used attributively before a noun (e.g. 'ascending order').

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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.