verb · B2

Ascend

uh-SEND/əˈsend/

To ascend is to go up, especially formally or gradually: ascend the stairs, ascend to the throne. Go up and climb are everyday; rise is close for movement without a climber. Ascent is the noun. In speech, go up / climb is enough. Ascend is slightly literary or ceremonial. Do not use it for a lift between two floors in a shopping centre unless you want a comic tone.

Meaning

To go up, especially in a formal or gradual way.

Examples

“The path ascends to the top of the hill.”
“Guests ascended the staircase in pairs while the photographer waited on the landing.”
“He ascended to head of department after a decade of quiet, competent work.”

Good to know

Go up (formal/gradual). Everyday: go up / climb. Noun: ascent. Also: ascend to a rank. Slightly literary or ceremonial.

Near in meaning

climb

New