clamber

[klam-ber, klam-er]

verb (used with or without object)

1. to climb, using both feet and hands; climb with effort or difficulty.

noun

1. an act or instance of clambering.

clamber

/ ˈklæmbə /

verb

1. to climb (something) awkwardly, esp by using both hands and feet

noun

1. a climb performed in this manner

Other Word Forms

• clamberer noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of clamber¹

First recorded in 1325–75; Middle English clambren, equivalent to clamb- (akin to climb ) + -r- -er ⁶ + -en infinitive suffix

Word History and Origins

Origin of clamber¹

C15: probably a variant of _climb

Example Sentences

Woo clambers atop a tent and hides from his pursuers.

Read more on Literature

Penelope clambered up next to the driver, as it was the only place to sit.

Read more on Literature

The children clambered to their feet and lined up eagerly at the door, but Penelope would not give up so easily.

Read more on Literature

The threat of gunfire was enough to make Admiral Faucet clamber onto Mama Woof’s back at last.

Read more on Literature

“Pardon me,” she said, clambering to her feet with as much dignity as she could muster, given the awkward circumstances.

Read more on Literature

Related Words

• climb