Ascent
easyPositive toneuh-SENT
noun
Definition
The act of rising or climbing up; an upward slope or path
Memory hook
A-SCENT rises upward like perfume — ascent means climbing up (not 'assent' = agreement).
Word roots
Learning roots unlocks whole word families. Study common GRE root words.
Examples
“The ascent to the mountain peak took three days.”
“Her ascent to the position of CEO was remarkably swift.”
Test yourself
Fill in the blank with the right word:
“The ______ to the mountain peak took three days.”
Show answer
ascent
Synonyms
Antonyms
Categories
GRE Tip
Ascent is a easy-difficulty GRE word. On the GRE, you might see it paired with synonyms like "climb" or "rise" in Sentence Equivalence questions. Look for contrast clues (however, despite, although) that signal the opposite meaning. Words like "descent".
Related GRE Words
meandering
Following a winding course; rambling and unfocused
nomadic
Living the life of a nomad; wandering from place to place
prescribe
To recommend or authorize; to lay down as a rule
roving
Constantly moving; wandering
stationary
Not moving or not intended to be moved
diffuse
to spread out widely; (as adjective) spread out and lacking concentration
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