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

At the yurt, guides outfitted me with a harness, helmet, belay device and pulley.

From Seattle Times • Aug. 3, 2023

I went first, with Miller anchoring himself above to belay me with the rope.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 9, 2023

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

From Washington Post • Jan. 3, 2023

Borrowing Jamie’s gloves, I hold the belay line—letting out slack as Jay rises, ready to snap it back if his legs slip or his grip fails.

From "Paradise on Fire" by Jewell Parker Rhodes

Vocabulary lists containing belay

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