steepness
/'sti:pnis/
Definition
Noun: - The quality or state of being steep; a high degree of inclination or slope. It refers to the property of a surface, especially a slope or hill, that rises or falls at a sharp, severe, or nearly vertical angle.
Usage
"Steepness" is used to describe the angle or gradient of a slope. It is a measurable property often discussed in contexts like geography, engineering, construction, and outdoor activities. It is a neutral, descriptive term.
Examples
- The steepness of the mountain trail made the hike extremely challenging.
- Engineers had to calculate the steepness of the embankment to ensure its stability.
- The road sign warned drivers of the sudden steepness of the hill ahead.
Advanced Usage
- Mathematical/Technical Context: In mathematics and engineering, steepness is often quantified as a gradient, slope, or angle of elevation (e.g., "a steepness of 30 degrees" or "a 45% gradient").
- Figurative Use: While less common, "steepness" can be used figuratively to describe a rapid, severe, or challenging increase in non-physical things, though this often uses the adjective "steep" instead (e.g., "the steepness of the learning curve").
Variants and Related Words
- Steep (adjective): Having a sharp slope or gradient (e.g., a steep cliff).
- Steeply (adverb): In a steep manner (e.g., The path rose steeply).
- Gradient (noun): A more technical synonym for the degree of steepness.
- Incline (noun): A slope, which can have varying degrees of steepness.
Synonyms
- Precipitousness: The quality of being very steep or perpendicular (often implies danger).
- Abruptness: Sudden steepness or sharpness of slope.
- Sheerness: Extreme steepness, like that of a cliff face.
Antonyms
- Gentleness: The quality of having a mild or gradual slope.
- Flatness: The state of being level, without slope or steepness.
Related Phrases and Collocations
- Degree of steepness: A phrase specifying the measurement of how steep something is.
- Sheer steepness: Emphasizes extreme, vertical steepness.
- To assess/measure the steepness: A common phrase in technical and recreational contexts.
Noun
-
the property possessed by a slope that is very steep
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