to move or slope gradually upwards; to rise
to rise from a lower level or degree
He ascended through the ranks to become managing director
to go back in time or in order of genealogical succession
to go or move up (something, e.g. a slope)
to rise from a lower level or degree
to rise in pitch
ascend the throne
to become queen or king
[Middle English ascenden from Latin ascendere, from ad- + scandere to climb]