A Beginners Guide to Rock Climbing Terminology
Rock climbing is a thrilling and challenging sport that requires physical strength, mental agility, and precise technique. It’s no wonder that it has developed its own unique vocabulary, known as rock climbing lingo. From technical terms describing equipment and safety measures to slang used by climbers to communicate with each other, understanding rock climbing lingo is essential for both beginners and seasoned climbers. In this list, we will explore some of the most common rock climbing terms and phrases used in the sport. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced climber, this guide will help you speak the language of rock climbing with confidence. You can also learn about the climbing equipment you need here.
Exposure
being high up off the ground and at risk of a serious fall.
Belaying
the technique of securing a climber using a rope.
Whipper
taking a big fall during a climb.
Rappelling
using a rope and a specialized device to safely descend a vertical or steep surface, such as a rock face or a cliff.
Dyno
a dynamic move where a climber jumps to grab a hold that is out of reach.
Redpoint
successfully climbing a route or boulder problem after prior attempts and beta.
Trad Climbing
style of rock climbing where climbers place and remove their own protection as they climb.
Nuts
a type of passive climbing protection that is placed in a crack in the rock.
Sport Climbing
a style of rock climbing where climbers ascend a pre-bolted route.
Slab Climbing
ascending a low-angle, smooth rock surface.
Crag
a small, steep cliff or rock face that is suitable for rock climbing.
Bouldering
a style of rock climbing that involves climbing short, difficult routes without the use of ropes or harnesses.
Overhang
a section of rock that is steeper than vertical.
Figure Eight
the most common knot used to attach a rope to the harness.
GriGri
a type of assisted braking device used for belaying.
Crimp
a small, sharp hold that is only big enough to be held with the fingertips.
Top Roping
a method of climbing where the rope is redirected through an anchor at the top.
Cams
expanding devices that are placed in cracks to protect a climber from a fall.
Scrambling
climbing over rocks and boulders.
Multipitch
a tall climb requiring multiple rope lengths to complete.
ATC
although originally the name of a specific device, this term is often used as a general descriptor for all belay devices.
Rating/Grade
the difficulty of a climb expressed as a decimal number.
Single Pitch
a climb that can be completed with a single length of rope.
