jyrkkyyden

Jyrkkyyden is the genitive form of the Finnish noun jyrkkyys, which denotes steepness or abruptness. In Finnish, jyrkkyyden is used when talking about the degree of incline or the sharpness of a slope or surface, for example in phrases describing the steepness of terrain, roads, or cliffs.

Etymology and usage: The word derives from jyrkkä, meaning steep, combined with the noun-forming suffix -yys. The genitive ending -den marks possession or relation, so jyrkkyyden describes “the steepness of something.” It is used across disciplines such as geology, geography, civil engineering, forestry, and outdoor planning to characterize how steep a feature is.

Measurement and context: Jyrkkyyden is typically expressed as a slope gradient—in percent or as an angle in degrees. In surveying, cartography, and construction planning, the steepness of a slope or embankment is important for stability, drainage, accessibility, and safety. In Finnish technical language, jyrkkyyden can appear in compounds like jyrkkyyden hallinta (control of steepness) or jyrkkyyden muutos (change in steepness).

Examples and nuance: A hillside with a high jyrkkyys is considered steep and may require specific engineering or land-use considerations. A road designer may assess jyrkkyyden tolerances to ensure safe driving conditions. The term also describes natural features such as cliffs or escarpments, where steepness influences erosion and habitat.

See also: Jyrkkyys, gradient, slope, incline, topography.