knoll

A knoll is a small natural hill that rises above the surrounding terrain. It is typically rounded in shape and smaller than a hill or mountain. Knolls are common in many landscapes and may occur individually or as part of a flat or gently rolling plain.

The word derives from Old English cnoll, cnole, from Proto-Germanic roots, meaning a rounded hill; it is cognate with related terms in other Germanic languages. In cartography and landscape studies, a knoll is identified as a minor elevation affecting drainage, vegetation, and land use. Knolls are usually characterized by gentle slopes and a compact, rounded profile, distinguishing them from larger hills or ridges.

Knoll appears in many place names in English-speaking regions and commonly serves as a geographical descriptor in toponyms. It is also a surname and part of the name of various companies and institutions, including Knoll, Inc., a furniture manufacturer known for modernist designs.

See also: hill, mound, hillock.