English Reference
noun · verb

ramp

n. · v.
US /ˈɹæmp/ UK /ɹˈæmp/ ramp UK spelling ramp's, ramp's, ramped

  1. 01 B1 Intermediate

    n.a sloping surface that connects a lower place to a higher place.

    n.an inclined plane used to join two different levels, often providing access for vehicles or wheelchairs.

    Simple

    The delivery driver used a metal ramp to move the heavy boxes into the shop.

    In context

    The building was recently renovated to include a concrete ramp, ensuring that the main entrance is fully accessible to wheelchair users.

  2. 02 B2 Upper Intermediate American English

    n.a short road that lets you get on or off a main highway.

    n.a short section of road providing access to or egress from a controlled-access highway or freeway.

    Simple

    Take the next exit ramp to get to the shopping centre.

    In context

    Heavy congestion on the off-ramp caused traffic to back up for several miles onto the main interstate.

    slip roadinterchange
  3. 03 B2 Upper Intermediate Aviation

    n.the flat area at an airport where planes park and load passengers.

    n.the paved area at an airport where aircraft are parked, loaded, unloaded, or refuelled.

    Simple

    The passengers waited on the bus while the plane was positioned on the ramp.

    In context

    Ground crew personnel are required to wear high-visibility clothing at all times when working on the ramp to prevent accidents.

  4. 04 C2 Proficiency American English

    n.a type of wild onion or leek that people eat.

    n.a North American species of wild onion (Allium tricoccum) with broad leaves and a strong garlic-like flavour.

    Simple

    We went into the woods to pick ramps for our spring soup.

    In context

    Ramps have become a highly sought-after seasonal delicacy in upscale restaurants across the Appalachian region.

    wild leekwild onion
  5. 05 C1 Advanced Academic Technical

    v.to increase or decrease something at a steady rate.

    v.to increase or decrease a value, level, or intensity, typically at a constant or controlled rate.

    Simple

    The factory will ramp up production to meet the high demand for the new phone.

    In context

    The software is designed to ramp the voltage gradually to prevent damage to the sensitive internal components.

  6. 06 C2 Proficiency British EnglishSlang

    n.a trick or a dishonest plan to steal money.

    n.a fraudulent scheme or a deliberate swindle, often involving the manipulation of prices.

    Simple

    He lost all his savings in a clever ramp involving fake gold coins.

    In context

    The investigation revealed a sophisticated ramp designed to artificially inflate the company's share price before the merger.

    scamfraudswindle
This entry
Level B1 · Intermediate
Frequency Frequent
Updated