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.

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

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 9, 2023

Climbers will wear a harness attached to an auto belay cable system, and they can choose between four varying levels of difficulty.

From Seattle Times • Jun. 1, 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

I cried at the belay - it could happen this time....The final 5 pitches felt scary in my current state but I pulled over the final lip at 10:30pm in disbelief.

From BBC • Nov. 9, 2020

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