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mountain

/ˈmaʊnt(ə)n/
/ˈmaʊntɛn/
IPA guide

Other forms: mountains

A mountain is a large and often steep landmass that's much higher than the surrounding area. It's not to be confused with a molehill.

The word mountain has been around since the 1200s. A mountain is much larger than an average hill; it's a mass of land that rises up to 2000 feet or so. Mountain does not always describe a land mass. It can also be used to refer to an undertaking, a pile of something, or even a large dose of trouble. You might have a mountain of mashed potatoes you don't want to eat, or a mountain of homework.

Definitions of mountain
  1. noun
    a land mass that projects well above its surroundings; higher than a hill
    synonyms: mount
    see moresee less
    examples:
    Black Hills
    mountains in western South Dakota and northeastern Wyoming
    types:
    alp
    any high mountain
    ben
    a mountain or tall hill
    seamount
    an underwater mountain rising above the ocean floor
    volcano
    a mountain formed by volcanic material
    guyot
    a seamount of volcanic origin (especially in the Pacific Ocean)
    type of:
    elevation, eminence, natural elevation
    a raised or elevated geological formation
  2. noun
    (often followed by `of') a large number or amount or extent
    see moresee less
    types:
    barrage, deluge, flood, flurry, inundation, torrent
    an overwhelming number or amount
    haymow
    a mass of hay piled up in a barn for preservation
    type of:
    large indefinite amount, large indefinite quantity
    an indefinite quantity that is above the average in size or magnitude
Pronunciation
US
/ˈmaʊnt(ə)n/
UK
/ˈmaʊntɛn/
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