Definition

1. Noun:
   • A deep, narrow, steep-sided valley, especially one that has been carved out by the erosive action of running water over a long period.

Usage

• The word "ravine" is used to describe a specific, dramatic landform. It is more specific than "valley" and typically implies a smaller, steeper, and more rugged feature, often found in mountainous or hilly terrain. It is a common term in geography, geology, and descriptive writing.

Examples

• Noun:
  • The hikers carefully descended into the deep ravine.
  • A small stream flowed at the bottom of the rocky ravine.
  • The road bridge spanned the narrow ravine.

Advanced Usage

• "to be carried down a ravine": to fall or be swept into a ravine.
  • The vehicle skidded off the road and was carried down the ravine.
• Descriptive Use: Often used with adjectives to specify its nature.
  • a forested ravine, a precipitous ravine, a shadowy ravine

Variants and Related Words

• Gully (n): A smaller, water-worn trench or channel, often a precursor to a ravine.
• Gorge (n): A very deep and narrow ravine, often with a river running through it. (A gorge is generally larger and more imposing than a ravine).
• Canyon (n): A large, deep gorge, typically with steep sides. (A canyon is on a larger scale than a ravine).
• Chasm (n): A deep fissure in the earth's surface; can be used more broadly than "ravine" and does not necessarily imply water erosion.

Synonyms

• Gully
• Gorge
• Defile (a narrow pass or gorge between mountains)
• Coulee (a deep gulch or ravine, often dry in summer)

Antonyms

• Plateau (a large, flat, elevated area of land)
• Plain (a large area of flat land with few trees)
• Mesa (a flat-topped hill with steep sides)

Idioms and Phrases

• "The ravine of despair": A metaphorical use describing a state of deep hopelessness or difficulty.
  • After the loss, the team fell into a ravine of despair.
• "Bridge the ravine": To overcome a significant gap or division.
  • The new policy aims to bridge the ravine between the rich and the poor.

Noun

1. a deep narrow steep-sided valley (especially one formed by running water)