Steepen: meaning, definitions and examples

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steepen

 

[ ˈstiːpən ]

Verb
Context #1 | Verb

increase slope

To steepen means to make something steeper or more inclined. This term is often used in various contexts such as geography, where it describes the angle of a slope, or in discussions about the steepness of stairs or ramps. The process of steepening can also refer to intensifying a situation or experience. In an educational context, steepening might refer to increasing the difficulty level of material or challenges presented to students.

Synonyms

heighten, incline, raise, tighten.

Examples of usage

  • The hill steepens as you climb higher.
  • The teacher decided to steepen the math problems for her advanced students.
  • After the rain, the trail steepened dramatically.
  • They had to steepen the ramp to accommodate the new accessibility requirements.

Translations

Translations of the word "steepen" in other languages:

🇵🇹 inclinar

🇮🇳 तीव्र करना

🇩🇪 steiler machen

🇮🇩 memperdalam

🇺🇦 підвищити

🇵🇱 stromeć

🇯🇵 急勾配にする

🇫🇷 rendre plus raide

🇪🇸 inclinar

🇹🇷 dikleştirmek

🇰🇷 경사를 높이다

🇸🇦 زيادة الانحدار

🇨🇿 zkosit

🇸🇰 zostriť

🇨🇳 加 steep

🇸🇮 povišati

🇮🇸 bratta

🇰🇿 бұру

🇬🇪 წახნაგება

🇦🇿 dikləşdirmək

🇲🇽 inclinar

Etymology

The word 'steepen' originates from the Old English word 'stæpen', which is a derivative of 'steap', meaning 'steep'. The term has evolved through Middle English, where it was used to describe making something more steep or acute. Over time, 'steepen' has retained a consistent meaning related to increasing the steepness of an angle or surface. The word is related to the concept of steepness in geography and topography, reflecting changes in elevation in various natural landscapes. The evolution of 'steepen' illustrates how language adapts to describe physical changes in the environment and human experiences through metaphors and literal interpretations.