Meaning & Definition of word "Steep"
to
Steep
/stiːp/
verb:
- 1. To soak (food or tea) in liquid to extract flavor or soften it.
- Example: We need to steep the tea bags for at least five minutes.
- 2. To immerse or saturate completely.
- Example: She decided to steep the fabric in dye overnight.
adjective:
- 1. Rising or falling sharply; having a sharp slope.
- Example: The trail was so steep that we had to stop to catch our breath.
- 2. Rising or falling at an angle greater than 45 degrees.
- Example: The steep cliffs by the ocean made it difficult to access the beach.
- 3. Excessively high in price or cost.
- Example: The prices at that restaurant are quite steep for what you get.
Etymology
Middle English stepe, of uncertain origin.
Common Phrases and Expressions
steep learning curve:
A situation requiring one to learn a lot in a short amount of time.
steep in tradition:
Deeply rooted in customary practices or beliefs.
steep price:
A cost that is considered excessively high.
Related Words
gradient:
The degree of inclination of a slope.
incline:
A slope or a slanted surface.
ascend:
To move upward.
Slang Meanings of steep
Meaning: Steeped in
Example Sentence: He is steeped in culture.
Meaning: Steeped in debt
Example Sentence: After the failed project, they were steeped in debt.