Plain English Meaning
Flying upward in a straight line — going up while staying pointed in the same direction, without banking or turning.
Full Definition
A climb in which the airplane gains altitude while maintaining a constant heading, with the wings level and no turn being made.
Context Anchor
Used when practicing basic flight maneuvers, after takeoff, and any time a pilot is told to climb while holding a specific direction.
Derivation
Straight comes from Old English streht meaning direct or undeviating; climb comes from Old English climban meaning to ascend. The combination emphasizes an undeviating upward path rather than a climbing turn.