climber

B1 · Intermediate Countable noun Botany

n. a plant that grows upwards by clinging to a wall, fence, or another plant.

n. a plant that grows upwards by using tendrils, hooks, or aerial roots to attach itself to a supporting structure.

“We planted a fast-growing climber to cover the old wooden fence.”

“The gardener recommended a hardy climber like ivy to provide year-round greenery on the shaded brick wall.”

B2 · Upper Intermediate Countable noun Informal

n. a person who tries very hard to become part of a higher social class or a more powerful group.

n. a person who attempts to gain a higher social position or status, often through calculated networking or marriage.

“He was known as a social climber who only invited wealthy people to his parties.”

“The novel satirises the local elite and the desperate social climbers who mimic their manners in hopes of being accepted into the inner circle.”