steep

UK: stiːp | US: stiːp

Definition
  1. adj. 1. (of a slope, hill, etc.) rising or falling sharply; nearly perpendicular.

  2. adj. 2. (of a price or demand) excessively high; unreasonable.

  3. vt. 1. To soak or saturate in a liquid, typically for flavor or preservation.

Structure
steep <high/soak>
Etymology

The adjective "steep" (meaning sharply rising) originates from Old English stēap, meaning "high, lofty," and is related to Old Norse steyp ("precipitous"). The verb "steep" (to soak) comes from Old English stēpan, likely influenced by Old Norse steypa ("to pour"). Though homonyms, their meanings diverged early, with the adjective retaining its physical sense and the verb focusing on immersion.

Examples
  1. The trail led up a steep mountain path.

  2. The hotel charges steep prices during peak season.

  3. She steeped the tea leaves for five minutes.

  4. The cliffs were too steep to climb without equipment.

  5. To enhance the flavor, steep the herbs in warm oil overnight.