26984 words

steep

11 definitions • 19 examples
1
(of a slope) rising or falling at a sharp angle:

Examples:

a steep slope
It's a steep climb to the top of the mountain, but the view is worth it.
The castle is set on a steep hill/hillside.
2
A steep rise or fall is one that goes very quickly from low to high or from high to low:

Examples:

There has been a steep increase/rise in prices.
3
(especially of prices) too much, or more than is reasonable:

Examples:

They are having to face very steep taxes.
We enjoyed our meal at the restaurant, but the bill was a bit steep.
The membership fees at the golf club are pretty steep.
4
to cause to stay in a liquid, especially in order to become soft or clean, or to improve flavour:

Examples:

Leave the cloth to steep in the dye overnight.
We had pears steeped in red wine for dessert.
5
(of a slope) rising or falling at a sharp angle:

Examples:

The train slowed as it went up a steep incline.
6
A steep rise or fall is one that goes very quickly from low to high or from high to low:

Examples:

Yesterday’s steep decline in the value of the dollar was unexpected.
7
(esp. of prices) too high; more than is reasonable:

Examples:

We enjoyed our stay at the hotel, but the charges were a bit steep.
8
to stay or cause to stay in a liquid, esp. in order to improve flavor or to become soft or clean:

Examples:

[ I ] Let the tea steep for five minutes.
[ T ] This stain will come out if you steep the cloth in cold water.
9
To be steeped in something is to be filled with it or to know a lot about it:

Examples:

[ T ] The college is steeped in tradition.
10
sudden and very big:

Examples:

steep decline/drop/fall With the steep fall in the price of oil, the economy has slowed significantly.
steep rise/increase The property market is beginning to decline after years of steep price increases.
11
very high or higher than is reasonable:

Examples:

steep fee/charge/cost Investors are concerned about the steep cost of the banking bail-out.
Co-operatives could soon face steep taxes.

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