ascending

UK: əˈsɛndɪŋ | US: əˈsɛndɪŋ

Definition

  1. adj. moving or going upward

  2. adj. increasing in size, importance, or value

  3. v. (present participle of ascend) rising or climbing

Structure
ascend <to climb>ing <present participle suffix>
Etymology

The word ascending derives from the Latin ascendere (ad- "to" + scandere "to climb"), which entered Middle English via Old French. The root scandere also gives us words like scan (originally "to climb by steps") and descend. The -ing suffix marks it as a present participle, indicating ongoing action. The core idea of upward movement remains consistent across its evolution.

Examples

  1. The hikers followed an ascending trail to the mountain summit.

  2. The balloon kept ascending until it disappeared into the clouds.

  3. Her voice was barely audible in the ascending scale of the orchestra.

  4. The company reported ascending profits for the third consecutive quarter.

  5. Birds were seen ascending in a spiral formation.