The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 7 letter word ABSEILS
I've seen this crossword clue in The Daily Telegraph
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More clues leading to the result ABSEILS
Buddy explains!
The straight part
We know that "descends by rope" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case descends by rope = abseils.The cryptic/wordplay part
In cryptic crossword there's often an wordplay/cryptic part as well.This part involves a more complex hint, such as an anagram, homophone, hidden word, etc.
Sadly, We don't have an explanation for this specific crossword clue yet.
Crossword Answer definitions
ABSEILS noun- A descent in mountaineering using a rope looped at the top and a friction device.
- To descend a steep or vertical drop using a rope with a mechanical friction device or (classic abseil) by wrapping the rope around the body; to rappel.