Promontory: meaning, definitions and examples

A promontory is a high point of land or rock projecting into a body of water, often used in more formal or literary contexts.

• The castle was built on a rocky promontory overlooking the sea

A headland is a narrow piece of land that sticks out into the sea, often used in geographical and more casual contexts.

• The lighthouse is situated on the headland to guide ships safely through the harbor

A cape is a piece of land extending into a body of water, usually a sea. It is often used in geographical names and travel contexts.

• We visited the famous Cape of Good Hope during our trip to South Africa

A point is a specific, precise location or place on a map, often used in everyday language and navigation contexts.

• The trail ends at a scenic point offering panoramic views of the coastline

Used to describe a high point of land that juts out into a large body of water; typically more significant in size and may have historical or geographical importance.

• The lighthouse stood tall on the promontory, guiding ships safely to the harbor.
• Tourists flocked to the famous promontory to enjoy the panoramic sea views.

Used for a rock formation that extends above the surface of the surrounding land. Often used in geological contexts.

• The geologists studied the ancient fossils embedded in the outcrop.
• From the top of the outcrop, they had a clear view of the entire valley.

Refers to a steep cliff or bank, often near a river or the sea, and may also denote a broader, more gentle slope than a cliff. Can sometimes carry negative connotations as it is also a term for deception.

• They enjoyed a picnic on the grassy bluff overlooking the river.
• As the storm approached, the fishermen hurriedly pulled their boats away from the bluff to safer waters.

Describes a steep rock face, especially at the edge of the sea, a river, or a large lake. Can be used in both physical and metaphorical contexts.

• The waves crashed against the base of the towering cliff.
• Standing on the edge of the cliff, she felt a rush of adrenaline.