Definition

Noun: A small, oblong metal loop featuring a spring-loaded gate that can be opened and closed. It is a fundamental piece of equipment used in climbing, mountaineering, and other rope activities to create secure, quick-release connections, typically between a rope and an anchor point like a piton, or between two ropes.

Usage

The word "karabiner" refers specifically to this piece of climbing hardware. It is used to describe the object itself and its function. * Climbers must check that each karabiner is properly locked before putting weight on it. * She clipped the rope into the karabiner attached to the harness. * A common use is to connect a karabiner to a piton driven into the rock.

Advanced Usage

• Screw-gate karabiner: A karabiner with a locking sleeve that screws over the gate to prevent accidental opening.
  • For critical connections, always use a screw-gate karabiner.
• Wire-gate karabiner: A karabiner with a gate made of thin wire, which is lighter and less prone to freezing shut.
  • Many alpine climbers prefer wire-gate karabiners for their reduced weight.

Variants and Related Words

• Carabiner: This is a common alternative spelling for "karabiner." The words are interchangeable.
  • He packed a dozen carabiners for the expedition.
• 'Biner: (Informal, noun) A clipped, slang term used by climbers to refer to a karabiner.
  • "Pass me another 'biner," the climber shouted.

Synonyms

• Snap link: A less common synonym that describes the snapping action of the gate.
• Clip: A general term often used informally to refer to a karabiner, focusing on its clipping function.

Related Phrases

• To clip a karabiner: The action of attaching the karabiner to something.
  • You must learn how to clip a karabiner quickly and safely.
• Karabiner gate: Refers specifically to the spring-loaded, opening part of the device.
  • Mud can jam a karabiner gate, making it unsafe.

Noun

1. an oblong metal ring with a spring clip; used in mountaineering to attach a rope to a piton or to connect two ropes