climb-down

[klahym-doun]

noun

1. a retreat, as from an indefensible opinion or position.

climb down

verb

1. to descend

2. (often foll by from) to retreat (from an opinion, position, etc)

noun

1. a retreat from an opinion, etc

Word History and Origins

Origin of climb down¹

First recorded in 1885–90; noun use of verb phrase climb down

Example Sentences

The inquiry heard that Shéa entered the construction site with his friends and told them he wanted to climb down a manhole.

From BBC

As he walked across the floor and climbed down into a part of the machinery, it activated the sensors and a large steel beam began to move, crushing Mr Day.

From BBC

"I climbed down the ladder of the boat and I saw this shark going past and he was looking at me and I had to be strong not to wet myself," he said.

From BBC

Last month, for example, he threatened to ramp up tariffs on goods arriving to US shores from the European Union, only to climb down a few days later.

From BBC

The group then made their escape by climbing down a wall and running across a highway, the sheriff said.

From BBC

Related Words

• disembark 
• get off