cwm

Definition

A valley head created through glacial erosion and with a shape similar to an amphitheatre.

Etymology

Unadapted borrowing from Welsh cwm (“valley”). Doublet of combe.

Example Sentences

• "A fine glacier descends from Mount Longstaff. It has cut very deep and the walls stand at an angle of at least 50°. Otherwise, although there are many cwms on the lower ranges, the mountains themselves seem little carved."