precipitous
UK: /prɪˈsɪpɪtəs/ | US: /prɪˈsɪpɪtəs/
adj. dangerously high or steep
adj. done with excessive haste; rash
The word "precipitous" derives from the Latin praeceps (headlong, steep), combining prae- (before) + caput (head). The root precipit- reflects the idea of a "headfirst fall," evoking steepness or suddenness. The suffix -ous (from Latin -osus) turns it into an adjective, emphasizing qualities like "full of" or "resembling." Over time, "precipitous" expanded from literal steepness (e.g., cliffs) to metaphorical haste (e.g., decisions).
The hikers avoided the precipitous trail due to its sheer drops.
His precipitous resignation shocked the entire company.
The mountain village was accessible only by a narrow, precipitous path.
Critics warned against precipitous economic reforms.
A precipitous decline in sales forced the store to close.