Physical Geography Terms

noun a long, steep slope, especially one at the edge of a plateau or separating areas of land at different heights

• The geologists studied the escarpment to understand the geological history of the area.
• We hiked up the escarpment for a great view of the valley below.
• Let's go check out that sick escarpment for some awesome photos.
• The challenges she faced in her career were like climbing a steep escarpment, but she never gave up.

noun a mass of rocks and sediment carried down and deposited by a glacier, typically as a ridge at its edges or extremity

• The glacier left behind a large moraine as it receded.
• We had to climb over a huge moraine to reach the top of the mountain.
• I tripped over a stupid moraine while hiking.
• The emotional moraine of past traumas weighed heavily on her heart.