declivity
UK: dɪˈklɪvɪti | US: dɪˈklɪvɪti
n. a downward slope or bend in a surface (e.g., a hill or terrain)
The word "declivity" originates from Latin declivitas, combining de- (down) and clivus (slope). The root cliv- is related to the Latin verb clinare (to lean or bend), which also gives us words like "incline" and "decline." Over time, declivitas evolved into Middle French declivité before entering English in the 17th century, retaining its core meaning of a downward slope. The suffix -ity standardizes it as a noun describing a state or quality.
The hikers struggled to climb the steep declivity.
A small stream trickled down the rocky declivity.
The road's sudden declivity made cycling dangerous.
Geologists studied the declivity to understand erosion patterns.
The castle was built atop a declivity for defensive advantage.