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Definition of cliff

cliff

/klɪf/
cliff
Plural:cliffs
•
Adjective:cliffy
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cliff Lexical Profile

cliff Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

A very steep, vertical, or overhanging face of rock, earth, or ice, typically formed by erosion or faulting along coastlines, river valleys, or mountainous terrain.

Example

"Seabirds nested in the narrow ledges along the towering limestone cliff overlooking the ocean."

2

A point in a financial, economic, or benefits schedule where a sudden, sharp decline or abrupt change in conditions occurs rather than a gradual transition.

Example

"The company structured its employee stock options with a one-year vesting cliff before any shares are granted."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Rhymes for cliff

• Nearby Words

clicky
client
clientele
cliff
cliffhanger
cliffhanging
clifflike

Word Origin & Etymology

Derived from the Old English word 'clif', meaning a steep rock, promontory, or coastal slope, which comes from the Proto-Germanic root '*kliba-'.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Cliff. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/cliff
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