Plateau

/plæˈtoʊ/

Meaning & Definition

noun

a flat, elevated landform that rises sharply above the surrounding area on at least one side.

The Colorado Plateau is known for its stunning landscapes and rock formations.

a state of little or no change following a period of activity or progress.

After several months of rapid improvement, the athlete reached a plateau in her performance.

verb

to reach a state of little or no change after a period of progress.

Sales plateaued after the initial launch of the product.

Borrowed from French 'plateau', meaning 'level ground', from 'plat' meaning 'flat'.

plateau effect

A stage where progress slows down or stops after a period of growth.

reach a plateau

To achieve a stable level after a period of increase.

mesa

A flat-topped hill or mountain.

tableland

An extensive area of flat land at a high elevation.

elevation

The height above sea level or ground level.

To maintain a steady state or level.

I'm just plateauing in my workouts; I need to switch things up.

When growth or change stops.

My business has plateaued; I need a new marketing strategy.