English · Word Candidate

steep

/stiːp/

Proposed by a contributor, not yet supported by evidence.

Also seen as: steeper · steepest · steeps · steeping

Sense 1

Meaning · English

Of a near-vertical gradient; of a slope, surface, curve, etc. that proceeds upward at an angle near vertical.

Adjective

Examples

a steep hill or mountain; a steep roof; a steep ascent; a steep barometric gradient

Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Sense 2

Meaning · English

Expensive.

AdjectiveRegister: informal

Examples

Twenty quid for a shave? That's a bit steep.

Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Sense 3

Meaning · English

The steep side of a mountain etc.; a slope or acclivity.

Noun

Examples

It ended precipitously in a dark and narrow ravine, formed on the other side by an opposite mountain, the lofty steep of which was crested by a city gently rising on a gradual slope

Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Sense 4

Meaning · English

To soak or wet thoroughly.

Verb

Examples

They steep skins in a tanning solution to create leather.

Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Common questions

What does “steep” mean?

Of a near-vertical gradient; of a slope, surface, curve, etc. that proceeds upward at an angle near vertical.

Is “steep” formal or informal?

No register label has been reviewed yet — treat it as neutral and check the usage notes above.