Definitions for belay

• Definition
• Anagrams (63)

belay be·lay

Spelling: [bih-ley]

IPA: /bɪˈleɪ/

Belay is a 5 letter English word. It's valid Scrabble word worth 10 points. It's valid Words with friends word worth 11 points.

You can make 63 anagrams from letters in belay (abely).

Definitions for belay

noun

1. Mountain Climbing. a rock, bush, or other object sturdy enough for a running rope to be passed around it to secure a hold.

verb (used with object)

1. Nautical. to fasten (a rope) by winding around a pin or short rod inserted in a holder so that both ends of the rod are clear.
2. Mountain Climbing. to secure (a person) by attaching to one end of a rope. to secure (a rope) by attaching to a person or to an object offering stable support.
3. to cease (an action); stop. to ignore (an announcement, order, etc.):

verb (used without object)

1. to belay a rope:

Origin of belay

before 900; Middle English beleggen, Old English belecgan. See be-, lay¹

Examples for belay

By the time a voice on board her cried, "belay," faintly, she had gone from my sight.

“belay that sea-lawyering, Marline,” interposed Captain Miles.

All he has to do when on a wind is to take and harden in all he can, and belay.

“belay that,” said Captain Miles, rousing up now and rubbing his eyes.

There now, old man, just belay all that, and let me finish my snooze.

None of the four that remained could do more than haul aft and belay a sheet.

Well there with the throat-halliards; well with the peak; belay!

He did not belay the tired animal with a whip and curse and swear at him in his helplessness.

“After that round turn, you may belay,” cried young Tom, laughing.

The order was given to belay the head braces, and we waited the result in silence.