carabiner

noun

car·​a·​bi·​ner ˌker-ə-ˈbē-nər How to pronounce carabiner (audio)
ˌka-rə-
variants or less commonly karabiner
: a usually D-shaped or oblong metal ring with one spring-hinged side that is used especially in mountain climbing as a connector and to hold a freely running rope

Illustration of carabiner

Illustration of carabiner

Examples of carabiner in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Featuring 256-bit AES hardware encryption and a handy carabiner loop, this massive external drive is currently available at a massive 48% discount right now. — Juhi Wadia, PC Magazine, 13 Aug. 2026 Go for this handheld fan with a carabiner that attaches to your purse. — Nneya Richards, Travel + Leisure, 1 July 2026 The Universal Tag Tracker attaches to keys, bags, backpacks, wallets, and more, and each comes with a silicone case and carabiner. — ABC News, 13 June 2026 In the past year, performative masc competitions have appeared across the country, with lesbians — hair slicked back and carabiners dangling from their Carhartt jeans — showing off in front of leering crowds. — Emma Madden, Los Angeles Times, 2 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for carabiner

Word History

Etymology

German Karabiner, short for Karabinerhaken, literally, carabineer's hook

First Known Use

1920, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of carabiner was in 1920

Rhymes for carabiner

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Browse Nearby Words

carabineer
carabiner
carabinero
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Carabiner.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/carabiner. Accessed 20 Aug. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on carabiner

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about carabiner

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