Definitions

belay

[bih-ley] / bɪˈleɪ /

VERB

stop

Synonyms

STRONG

arrest cancel cease check end halt quit stall stay

WEAK

bring to a standstill call a halt to put a stop to

Antonyms

STRONG

advance allow begin commence continue go help permit start

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

In a Facebook post, mountain rescue said the climbing leader was uninjured after the fall and managed to regain the belay device which helps to keep the climbers safe.

From BBC • Mar. 31, 2026

Then, he heard what he thought was someone shouting that he was on belay.

From Los Angeles Times • Jan. 11, 2024

We know the novel’s prettiness will always be there to belay this heroine to a gentle landing.

From Washington Post • Jan. 3, 2023

You must be able to properly tie into the rope and your partner must be competent using a belay device to take in rope as you climb and then hold your weight.

From Seattle Times • Jul. 2, 2021

I belay for Jay as he climbs; Jamie makes sure I do it right.

From "Paradise on Fire" by Jewell Parker Rhodes