Definition

1. Noun:
   • A ridge of hills with a sharp crest: "hog's-back" refers to a narrow, steep-sided hill or ridge that resembles the arched back of a hog (a pig), typically with a sharp or pointed top.
   • A geological formation: In physical geography, it denotes a landform where a hard rock layer forms a sharp, narrow crest, often with steep slopes on either side.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The hikers followed the trail along the hog's-back, careful not to slip on the steep sides. (A ridge of hills with a sharp crest.)
  • The valley was flanked by a hog's-back that rose abruptly from the plain. (A geological formation with a narrow, pointed top.)

Advanced Usage

• "hog's-back" as a descriptive term: Often used in geography and geology to describe a specific type of landform.
  • The region is characterized by several hog's-backs formed by ancient volcanic activity. (Geological ridges with sharp crests.)

Variants and Related Words

• Hogback (n): an alternative spelling of "hog's-back," meaning the same landform.

  • The map marked the hogback as a prominent feature of the landscape. (A ridge of hills with a sharp crest.)

• Hog-backed (adj): describing a shape or structure that resembles a hog's back, typically arched or ridged.

  • The hog-backed bridge had a steep, arched design. (The bridge had a shape like a hog's back.)

Synonyms

• Ridge: a long, narrow top of a hill or mountain.
• Escarpment: a steep slope or long cliff formed by erosion or faulting.
• Cuesta: a ridge with a gentle slope on one side and a steep slope on the other.

Related Idioms

• "Ride the hog's-back": an informal expression meaning to travel along a narrow, high ridge, often used in hiking or mountaineering contexts.
  • Experienced climbers often ride the hog's-back of the mountain for a thrilling view. (Travel along the narrow ridge.)

Notes on Usage

• The term "hog's-back" is primarily used in geography and geology to specify a particular type of hill or ridge. It is less common in everyday language but appears in descriptive writing, travel guides, and scientific texts. The spelling "hogback" is also widely accepted.