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steep
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As an adjective, steep means of a near-vertical gradient. As a noun, it means the steep side of a mountain etc.
Meanings of steep
15 meaningsadjective
Of a near-vertical gradient; of a slope, surface, curve, etc. that proceeds upward at an angle near vertical.
“a steep hill or mountain; a steep roof; a steep ascent; a steep barometric gradient”
informalExpensive
“Twenty quid for a shave? That's a bit steep.”
a car's windshieldResulting in a mast or windshield angle that strongly diverges from the perpendicular
“The steep rake of the windshield enhances the fast lines of the exterior.”
Having a sharp inclination
“the steep attic stairs”
“steep cliffs”
Greatly exceeding bounds of reason or moderation
“exorbitant rent”
“extortionate prices”
“spends an outrageous amount on entertainment”
Similar: exorbitant, extortionate, outrageous, unconscionable, usurious
Older and rare meanings (1)
obsoleteDifficult to access; not easy reached; lofty; elevated; high.
noun
The steep side of a mountain etc.; a slope or acclivity.
A liquid used in a steeping process
“Corn steep has many industrial uses.”
A rennet bag.
A steep place (as on a hill)
verb
middle voiceTo soak or wet thoroughly.
“They steep skins in a tanning solution to create leather.”
“The tea is steeping.”
figurativeTo imbue with something; to be deeply immersed in.
“a town steeped in history”
To make tea (or other beverage) by placing leaves in hot water.
Let sit in a liquid to extract a flavor or to cleanse
“steep the blossoms in oil”
“steep the fruit in alcohol”
Similar: infuse
Meanings from Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0) and Open English WordNet (CC BY 4.0).