beta
BAY-tuh
Information about a climbing route shared among climbers — where the holds are, which sequence works, where to rest. Giving beta is an act of generosity or, depending on the recipient, an unwelcome spoiler.
Etymology
American climbing slang, 1980s. Possibly from Betamax videotape — early climbing beta was shared via video. Or from the idea of beta-testing a route.
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