ascent

noun

as·​cent ə-ˈsent 

a-

1

a

: the act of rising or mounting upward : climb

completed their ascent of the mountain

b

: an upward slope or rising grade : acclivity

followed the steep ascent to the top of the hill

c

: the degree of elevation : inclination, gradient

2

: an advance in social status or reputation : progress

their ascent from the lower class to the middle class

3

: a going back in time or upward in order of genealogical succession

Synonyms

• ascension
• climb
• rise
• rising
• soar

Examples of ascent in a Sentence

They followed a steep ascent to the top of the hill.

our plane broke through some heavy low clouds during its ascent and leveled off once we were above them

Recent Examples on the Web

In 2025, air passengers will see lounge openings and changes in frequent flier programs, and the number of premium and elite offerings will continue at a steady ascent. —Christine Chung, New York Times, 22 Jan. 2025

Officials said a couple of engines dropped out during that ascent phase but could not offer a direct explanation for the outcome. —Anthony Robledo, USA TODAY, 17 Jan. 2025

All 33 Raptor engines on the Super Heavy booster powered the rocket to a nominal ascent. —Tom Howarth, Newsweek, 17 Jan. 2025

And if Hodge continues his ascent after a strong rookie season, the Cubs may have an elite reliever. —Sahadev Sharma, The Athletic, 14 Jan. 2025

Word History

Etymology

irregular from ascend

First Known Use

1581, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Kids Definition

ascent

noun

as·​cent ə-ˈsent 

a-

1

: the act of rising or climbing up

began their ascent of the mountain

2

: an upward slope