Steep

Definition

The term "steep" refers to something having a sharp inclination or slope, or the act of soaking something in liquid to extract flavor or soften it.

Parts of Speech

• Adjective
• Verb
• Noun (rare)

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /stiːp/
• Respelling: STEEP

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /stiːp/
• Respelling: STEEP

Etymology

The word "steep" originates from the Old English "stēap," meaning "high or lofty," and is related to Proto-Germanic "*staupa," meaning "steep or high." Its verb form, related to soaking, comes from Old Norse "steypa," meaning "to pour out or steep."

Derivatives

• Steeply (adverb)
• Steepness (noun)
• Oversteep (verb)
• Steep-sided (adjective)
• Steepable (adjective)

Synonyms

• Inclined
• Precipitous
• Soak (for verb usage)

Antonyms

• Flat
• Gradual
• Dry (for verb usage)

Usage

The term "steep" is used in both physical and metaphorical contexts, describing slopes, prices, or soaking processes. For example: "The path was too steep to climb safely," or "The tea needs to steep for five minutes."

Related Terms

• Slope: An inclined surface.
• Soak: To immerse something in liquid.
• Inclination: A slanted or leaning position.

Detailed Definitions

Adjective

• Having a sharp incline: Describes a surface or slope that rises or falls abruptly.
  • Example: "The steep hill was challenging to climb."
• Excessive or extreme: Refers to something that is unusually high or severe.
  • Example: "The price was too steep for a simple meal."

Verb

• To soak in liquid: Refers to immersing something in a liquid, often to extract flavor or soften it.
  • Example: "She left the tea to steep for a few minutes."

Noun

• The act of steeping: Rarely used to refer to the process of soaking.
  • Example: "The steep of the herbs gave the soup its rich flavor."