Ridged

Ridged is an adjective describing a surface or object that has ridges—narrow raised lines or crests that run across or along its length. The word can apply to textures, patterns, or shapes in both natural and manufactured materials.

In geology and geography, ridged describes terrain featuring elongated crests, such as mountain ridges formed by folding or faulting; ocean ridges along tectonic plates; dune ridges formed by wind; and ridged coastlines.

In biology and botany, ridged texture appears in skin patterns known as friction ridges on fingers and palms, on plant stems with longitudinal ridges, and on certain shells or bones where grooves create raised lines.

In engineering and design, ridged textures improve grip, reduce slip, or influence fluid flow. They are used on handles, grilles, heat-exchange surfaces, or turbine blades; manufacturing methods include molding, machining, or texturing processes.

Etymology and nuance: Ridged derives from ridge and is often used interchangeably with ribbed in everyday language, though ridges may be shallower or differently oriented. The exact meaning depends on context and discipline.