precipitous

Precipitous is an adjective used to describe something extremely steep or vertical, such as a precipitous cliff or slope. It can also describe an action, change, or event that occurs suddenly or with little warning, often implying risk or recklessness, as in a precipitous decision or a precipitous decline in values. The term conveys a sense of danger or abruptness, whether applied to physical terrain or to trends and processes.

Etymology and related terms: Precipitous derives from Latin praecipit-, from praecipitare “to throw headlong,” formed from prae- “before” and capere “to seize.” In English, the word has carried both the sense of vertical sharpness and rapidity since the late Middle Ages. A related noun is precipice, meaning a very steep cliff; note that precipitation (a weather term) shares a root but has a distinct meaning.

Geographic and figurative usage: In geography and geology, a precipitous slope presents hazards for construction, erosion control, and travel. In economics, politics, or daily life, a precipitous change denotes a rapid, often alarming shift that can require swift response, though it does not by itself indicate cause.

Usage notes: Precipitous often carries a negative or cautionary tone, especially when describing decisions or trends, implying imprudence or danger. For less extreme slopes, words such as steep or sheer are typically more precise.