kliffen

Kliffen is the Dutch term for cliffs, i.e., steep rock faces that rise abruptly from surrounding terrain or water. The plural form kliffen denotes more than one such feature; the singular is klif. In geology and geography, kliffen describe natural escarpments that can occur along coastlines, river valleys, and mountain fronts. They are shaped by long-term processes of erosion, weathering, tectonic uplift, and, in coastal zones, wave action.

Rock type and structure influence their appearance and stability. Hard rocks such as limestone, chalk, sandstone, and basalt commonly form vertically oriented faces, while softer rocks like shale or clay yield stepped profiles or undercut ledges. Cliffs may have a resistant caprock and a talus slope at their base formed by rockfall debris.

Formation processes include undercutting at the base by waves, rivers, or glaciers; weathering from temperature changes, moisture, and vegetation; and gravity-driven mass wasting that causes collapses and retreat of the cliff line over time. The rate of cliff retreat depends on rock strength, lithology, climate, and coastal or valley dynamics.

Cliffs are important in landscape history and biodiversity, but also pose hazards to visitors and infrastructure. They are often protected for geomorphological value, scenic appeal, or habitat conservation.