His statement is seen as an attempt to 'climb down' [='back away'] from the strong denial he made yesterday.
a 'climbing plant' [=a plant that attaches itself to something, such as a wall, as it grows up it]
The players 'climbed' into their uniforms [=put on their uniforms] and headed for the field.
(..) Lalita, this is Leonard and Sheldon and Howard and Penny. Isn’t it great? She isn't fat anymore. Forgive me, Your Highness... ...for I am but a monkey and it is in my nature to climb. I did not mean to gaze upon you as you comb your hair. I'm sorry? You are the living embodiment (..)2007 TvShow: The Big Bang Theory Title: The Grasshopper Experiment Season: 1 Episode 8