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Mountain Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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mountain

[ˈmaʊntən ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

nature

A large natural elevation of the earth's surface rising abruptly from the surrounding level; a large steep hill.

Synonyms

hill, peak, range, summit.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
mountain

A large and steep landform that rises prominently above its surroundings. Used when describing a very high and large geological formation.

  • The Rocky Mountains are famous for their breathtaking landscapes
  • We went hiking in the mountains last summer
peak

The pointed top of a mountain or hill, often used to emphasize the highest point of a mountain.

  • Climbing to the peak of Mount Everest is a dream for many adventurers
  • From the peak, you can see the entire valley below
hill

A naturally raised area of land, not as high or steep as a mountain. Often used in everyday conversation to describe smaller and more accessible elevations.

  • The children rolled down the grassy hill
  • There is a beautiful park on the hill near our house
range

A series of connected mountains, used when talking about multiple mountains that are part of a larger system.

  • The Andes range stretches along the western coast of South America
  • The scenic mountain range was visible from the plane
summit

The highest point or top of a mountain, often used in the context of achievements or reaching the highest point in a formal sense.

  • Reaching the summit of the mountain took three days of hard climbing
  • The leaders of several countries met at a summit to discuss global issues

Examples of usage

  • The view from the top of the mountain was breathtaking.
  • She enjoyed hiking in the mountains during the summer.
  • We could see snow on the mountains in the distance.
  • The mountain range stretched as far as the eye could see.
  • The village was nestled at the base of the mountain.
Context #2 | Noun

geography

A landform that extends above the surrounding terrain in a limited area, usually in the form of a peak.

Synonyms

hill, peak, range, summit.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
mountain

A large natural elevation of the earth’s surface, typically rising abruptly; larger and higher than a hill.

  • Mount Everest is the tallest mountain in the world.
  • The view from the top of the mountain was breathtaking.
peak

The pointed top of a mountain or ridge; also can be used metaphorically to describe the highest point of something.

  • The climbers finally reached the peak of the mountain after several days.
  • She was at the peak of her career when she received the award.
hill

A naturally raised area of land, not as high or craggy as a mountain.

  • We took a leisurely walk up the hill behind our house.
  • The children love rolling down the grassy hill in the park.
range

A series of mountains or hills ranged in a line and connected by high ground.

  • The Rocky Mountains are a major mountain range in North America.
  • They went on a hiking trip through the Sierra Nevada range.
summit

The highest point or part of a hill or mountain; often used figuratively for the highest attainable level of achievement.

  • The team finally reached the summit after a long and difficult climb.
  • World leaders met at the summit to discuss climate change.

Examples of usage

  • The highest mountain in the world is Mount Everest.
  • The mountain was covered in lush green forests.
  • She studied the formation of mountains in her geography class.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Geography

  • Mount Everest, the tallest mountain in the world, stands at 29,032 feet (8,848 meters) above sea level.
  • The Himalayas are home to some of the highest mountains on Earth, formed by the collision of tectonic plates.
  • Mountain ranges can form entire ecosystems, affecting climate and biodiversity in the regions surrounding them.

Cultural Significance

  • Many cultures view mountains as sacred places, often believing they are home to gods or spirits.
  • In ancient Greece, Mount Olympus was considered the home of the gods and the highest mountain of the country.
  • The Inca civilization revered the Andes mountains, believing they were inhabited by deities.

Adventure and Recreation

  • Mountains offer popular activities like hiking, skiing, and rock climbing, attracting adventure seekers from all over.
  • The concept of 'mountaineering' combines hiking and climbing to explore high-altitude terrains.
  • Many famous landmarks, like Uluru in Australia, are mountains that also serve as popular tourist destinations.

Wildlife

  • Mountains provide unique habitats that support various wildlife, including species adapted to cold and rocky environments.
  • The snow leopard, native to Asian mountain ranges, is an example of a specialized predator thriving in these habitats.
  • Flora in mountainous ecosystems can vary widely, with some plants only growing above certain elevations due to harsh conditions.

Environmental Impact

  • Mountainous regions influence weather patterns and are often the source of rivers, playing a crucial role in ecosystems.
  • Glacial movements in mountains can shape landscapes and create unique geological features over time.
  • Deforestation and climate change are significant threats to mountain ecosystems, affecting biodiversity and water supply.

Origin of 'mountain'

The word 'mountain' originated from the Middle English word 'mountaine,' which came from the Old French 'montaigne.' The Latin word 'montanus' also contributed to its etymology. Humans have long been fascinated by mountains, considering them sacred or divine in many cultures. Mountains have played a significant role in shaping landscapes and influencing weather patterns. They have been the setting for numerous myths, legends, and adventures throughout history.

See also: insurmountable, mount, mounted, mounting, surmount.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #2,303, this word belongs to solid intermediate vocabulary. It's frequently used in both casual and formal contexts and is worth learning for better fluency.