scarp

• Nom désignant un versant raide ou une falaise, souvent formé par l'érosion en bordure d'un plateau ou d'un crêt, ou un talus artificiel abrupt devant un ouvrage fortifié.

A noun referring to a steep slope or cliff, often formed by erosion at the edge of a plateau or ridge, or a steep artificial slope in front of a fortification.

1. Steep natural slopeC1formal

   A long, steep slope or cliff that forms the edge of a plateau or ridge, typically created by erosion.

   Escarpement

   • The hikers carefully descended the rocky scarp.
   • The plateau ends abruptly in a dramatic scarp.
   • Erosion over millennia carved this impressive scarp.

   Synonymesbluffcliffcragescarpmentprecipicescarsteep

2. Fortification slopeC1formal

   A steep artificial slope constructed in front of a defensive wall or fortification to make assault more difficult.

   Escarpe (fortification)

   • The castle's outer defenses included a high scarp.
   • Soldiers dug a scarp around the fort for protection.
   • The ancient scarp still shows signs of its military purpose.

   Synonymesescarp