English Reference

Word

climbing

Phoneticsclimb·ing, stress on the first syllable

US/ˈkɫaɪmɪŋ/

UK/klˈaɪmɪŋ/

Definitions

01the sport

A2 · Elementary Uncountable noun Sports

n. the activity or sport of moving up rocks, mountains, or indoor walls.

n. the athletic activity or sport of ascending natural rock formations or artificial walls, typically involving specialised equipment like ropes and harnesses.

“She goes climbing at the local gym twice a week to stay fit.”

“Indoor climbing has seen a surge in popularity, providing a controlled environment for beginners to develop the grip strength required for natural rock faces.”

Synonyms

mountaineeringrock climbing

02botany

B2 · Upper Intermediate Science Technical

adj. describes a plant that grows upwards by attaching itself to a wall or fence.

adj. denoting a plant that grows upward by using tendrils, hooks, or aerial roots to attach itself to a supporting structure.

“We planted climbing roses along the garden fence for more privacy.”

“The architect specified climbing ivy for the north facade to provide natural insulation and soften the building's concrete exterior.”

Synonyms

trailingvining

Antonyms

Etymology

From Middle English clymbyng; equivalent to climb + -ing.

Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.

Word family

NOUN

climbing(A2)

Domain

Botany

This entry

Exam level
CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.A2 KeyIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.3.0–4.0TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 2.0–2.524–43TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.225–549
Frequency
Common
Level
A2 · Elementary
Updated

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English Reference