precipitous

[pri-sip-i-tuhs]

adjective

1. of the nature of or characterized by precipices.

   a precipitous wall of rock.

   Antonyms: level, flat

2. extremely or impassably steep.

   precipitous mountain trails.

   Synonyms: perpendicular, sheer, abrupt
   Antonyms: level, flat

3. precipitate.

precipitous

/ prɪˈsɪpɪtəs /

adjective

1. resembling a precipice or characterized by precipices

2. very steep

3. hasty or precipitate

Usage

The use of precipitous to mean hasty is thought by some people to be incorrect

Other Word Forms

• precipitously adverb
• precipitousness noun
• unprecipitous adjective
• unprecipitously adverb
• unprecipitousness noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of precipitous¹

1640–50; < obsolete French précipiteux; precipitate, -ous

Example Sentences

Some researchers have clocked precipitous drops in the recidivism rate, as this metric is called, because of educational progress and its connection to landing a good job.

From Los Angeles Times

His mental decline is precipitous, undeniable and dangerous.

From Salon

With the precipitous drop in migrant crossings at the southern U.S. border, the drones are now tasked with fewer missions.

From Los Angeles Times

Tesla’s profits plummeted 71% over the first three months of the year, with reputation rankings showing a similarly precipitous drop amongst consumers.

From Los Angeles Times

Local officials continued to emphasize the need for a speedy recovery, in part because they are worried about the precipitous drop in tax revenue.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• abrupt 
• dizzying 
• sharp