auto-blocking belay device
- noun
- Specialized
- The instructor demonstrated how to use the auto-blocking belay device with a rope and a carabiner.
Examples
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Many climbers prefer an auto-blocking belay device for added safety on multi-pitch routes.
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Make sure the auto-blocking belay device is properly threaded before you start the climb.
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The auto-blocking belay device is essential for safety.
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I always use an auto-blocking belay device when climbing.
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Many climbers prefer an auto-blocking belay device for added safety on multi-pitch routes.
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Make sure the auto-blocking belay device is properly threaded before you start the climb.
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The instructor demonstrated how to use the auto-blocking belay device with a rope and a carabiner.
Synonyms
A metal plate with a long slot that helps control a climbing rope by holding a carabiner
How Secure
- Specialized
- Jargon
Surface Forms
Morphology
auto-blocking + belay + device
The term is compositionally clear: a B1 learner who knows 'auto/automatic', 'blocking', 'belay' (to secure a rope) and 'device' can infer this is a belaying device that automatically blocks the rope. Although technical, the meaning follows normal English compounding/nominal modification patterns and is directly derivable from the constituents, so prior exposure is not required.
Etymology
Auto-blocking belay device is named for how it works: auto means it acts by itself, blocking means it grabs and stops the rope, and belay device is the tool a climber uses to 'hold the rope'. So, the name reminds you it is a climbing tool that automatically locks the rope to 'stop a fall'.