English Explanatory Dictionary

precipitous

English dictionary entry

Meanings

adj
  1. Steep, like a precipice
  2. Headlong
  3. Hasty; rash; quick; sudden

Pronunciation

/pɹɪˈsɪpɪtəs/ en-us-precipitous.ogg

Word forms

precipitous

Etymology

From obsolete French précipiteux, from Vulgar Latin *praecipitosus, from prae + caput (“head”). Equivalent to precipice (“steep”) + -ous.

Synonyms

hotheaded impetuous subitaneous abrupt brant steepdown steep-to headlong precipitant heedless

Derived words

precipitously precipitousness
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