Definition

Noun: 1. A high mountain, especially one in the Alps: The word "alp" primarily refers to a high, rugged mountain, most commonly associated with the Alpine mountain range in Europe. It evokes imagery of snow-capped peaks and challenging terrain. 2. A mountain pasture: In specific regional usage (particularly in Switzerland), "alp" can also refer to a high-altitude meadow or pasture used for grazing livestock during the summer months.

Usage Examples

• Noun (High Mountain):
  • The climbers gazed up at the sheer face of the alp.
  • The village was nestled in a valley between two towering alps.
• Noun (Mountain Pasture):
  • The farmers led their cows to the lush green alp for the summer.
  • We hiked up to the alp to see the wildflowers in bloom.

Advanced Usage

• "The Alps" (proper noun): The specific, famous mountain range in south-central Europe. When capitalized, it almost always refers to this specific range.
  • They went skiing in the Alps last winter.
• "Alpine" (adjective): Relating to high mountains, especially the Alps. This is a more common derivative.
  • The region has a harsh alpine climate.

Variants and Related Words

• Alpine (adj.): Of, relating to, or resembling high mountains.
  • Alpine skiing, alpine flora
• Subalpine (adj.): Relating to the region just below the timberline on mountains.

Synonyms

• Peak: The pointed top of a mountain.
• Mount: A mountain or hill (often used in names).
• Summit: The highest point of a mountain.
• Height: A high place or area.

Notes on Meaning

The core meaning of "alp" is a high mountain. The secondary meaning of a mountain pasture is a specific, regional usage derived from life in the Alpine regions, where such pastures are a common feature of the landscape. In general English, the first definition is more widely understood.

Noun

1. any high mountain