v. be·layed, be·lay·ing, be·lays v.tr. 1. Nautical To secure or make fast (a rope, for example) by winding on a cleat or pin. 2. To provide security to (a climber) by paying out or drawing in rope, often through a braking device, in readiness to break a potential fall. 3. To cause to stop. v.intr. 1. To be made secure. 2. Used in the imperative as an order to stop: Belay there! n. 1. The act of belaying a climber. 2. A system of ropes and anchors by which a climber is belayed. [Middle English bileggen, to surround, from Old English belecgan; see legh- in the Appendix of Indo-European roots.] |
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