alp

Definition

A very high mountain. Specifically, one of the Alps, the highest chain of mountains in Europe.

Etymology

Late Middle English, back-formation from alps pl, via French from Latin Alpes (“high mountains, especially those of Switzerland”). Compare Old Saxon elbon (“Alps”), Old High German Alpūn (“Alps”); Old High German alba (“alp, mountain”)).

Example Sentences

• "Nor breath of Vernal Air from ſnowy Alp."
• "Hills peep o'er Hills, and Alps on Alps ariſe!"
• "There is a great alp of sand, one hundred metres high, between the pines and the ocean, […]"