In climbing, to secure a rope around a fixed object to protect a climber. In nautical contexts, to secure a rope by winding it around a cleat.
From Dutch 'beleggen' meaning 'to make fast' or 'to cover', which came into English maritime vocabulary in the 16th century. The climbing sense developed in the 20th century as rock climbing became popular.
Sailors have been 'belaying' ropes for centuries, but climbers adopted this nautical term because both activities require the same crucial skill - managing rope tension to prevent disaster. The phrase 'belay that order' (meaning 'disregard that') also comes from sailing.
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