Based on context clues, what is the definition of the underlined word?

To my oxygen-depleted mind, the clouds drifting up the grand valley of ice known as the Western Cwm looked innocuous, wispy, insubstantial.

Based on context clues, what is the definition of the underlined word?

I arrived at the notorious Hillary Step...a spot that does require a fair amount of technical maneuvering.

Based on context clues, what is the definition of the underlined word?

By now tendrils of mist were wrapping across...and lapping at Everest's summit pyramid. No longer did the weather look so benign.

Based on context clues, what is the definition of the underlined word?

... my compadres were dallying, memorializing their arrival at the apex of the planet with photos and high-five...

Based on context clues, what is the definition of the underlined word?

In a day of many mistakes, this (Weathers' decision to wait for Groom) would turn out to be a crucial one.

Based on context clues, what is the definition of the underlined word?

It's not far-fetched to speculate that because Hall had talked Hansen into coming back to Everest this year, he wouldn't deny him the chance to summit.

Based on context clues, what is the definition of the underlined word?

It meant that Hall and Hansen struggled, taking more than 12 hours to traverse a stretch of ridge typically covered by descending climbers in half an hour

Based on context clues, what is the definition of the underlined word?

It was understood that attempting a rescue would needlessly jeopardize the lives of the other climbers on the Col.

Based on context clues, what is the definition of the underlined word?

I sat in the snow for a long while, staring at my boots, trying to get some grip, however tenuous, on what had happened.