noun
- Plural of etrier; short ladder-like devices with rungs or steps, used in climbing or mountaineering to gain purchase on steep rock or ice.
Usage: climbing/mountaineering term; also called aid ladders or stirrups
Examples
- The climber attached etriers to the pitons to ascend the vertical rock face.
- Modern etriers are made from lightweight nylon webbing and aluminum.
- She clipped her feet into the etriers and pulled herself higher up the wall.
- Etriers allow climbers to rest while making progress on difficult aid climbs.