chimney
n. · v.-
1 smoke vent (n.) A2 Elementarya pipe or stone structure that carries smoke from a fireplace out through the roof of a building.
a vertical flue or duct that provides ventilation for smoke and combustion gases from a fireplace, stove, or furnace.
ExampleSmoke rose steadily from the chimney of the small cottage in the woods.
ExampleThe architect insisted on a traditional brick chimney to maintain the aesthetic integrity of the Victorian restoration project.
- flue
- smokestack
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2 rock climbing (n.) C1 Advanced Technicala narrow vertical crack in a rock that is big enough for a person to fit inside.
a vertical fissure in a rock face with parallel sides, wide enough to admit the body of a climber.
ExampleThe climber wedged himself into the chimney and slowly moved upward.
ExampleThe route becomes significantly more technical once you reach the chimney, requiring a combination of back and foot pressure to ascend.
Teacher's tipThis is a specialized term used primarily in mountaineering and geology.
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3 to climb a crack (v.) C2 Proficiency Technicalto climb up a narrow gap in a rock by pushing your back and feet against the sides.
to ascend a vertical rock fissure by applying opposing pressure with the back, hands, and feet against the parallel walls.
ExampleIt was difficult to chimney up the narrow gap with such a heavy backpack.
ExampleExperienced climbers often prefer to chimney through the central crack rather than attempting the exposed outer face of the cliff.
UsageThe verb is often used intransitively to describe the method of movement.
Teacher's tipThis verb use is very rare outside of the rock climbing community.
From Middle English chymeneye, chymneye, chymene, from Old French cheminee, from Late Latin camīnāta, from Latin camīnus, from Ancient Greek κάμῑνος (kámīnos, “furnace”). Doublet of chimenea.