mäkeen

Mäkeen is a Finnish word that translates to "into the slope" or "to the hill." It is most commonly used in the context of skiing or snowboarding, referring to the act of descending a snow-covered hill or mountain. The word can also be used more broadly to describe going downhill in general, such as rolling down a grassy hill or sliding down a slope.

In skiing and snowboarding, "mäkeen" signifies the start of the descent, the point where a rider or skier commits to the downhill movement. It can imply a sense of excitement and anticipation for the experience of gliding down the snow. The term is an integral part of the vocabulary used by winter sports enthusiasts in Finland and in other Nordic countries where Finnish is understood.

Beyond its literal meaning, "mäkeen" can sometimes carry a figurative connotation. It might suggest embracing a challenge or entering a situation that involves a steep or potentially difficult path. However, its primary and most frequent usage remains firmly rooted in the physical act of going downhill, particularly on snow-covered terrain.