Alpen

/ˈælpən/ adjective

Definition

Relating to or characteristic of the Alps or high mountain regions, especially the Alpine environment and landscape.

Etymology

From 'Alpen,' the German name for the Alps, derived from Latin 'Alpis' (possibly from Celtic roots meaning 'white' or 'high'). The term entered English through German geographical terminology.

Kelly Says

Calling something 'alpen' is basically the German way of saying 'from the high mountains'—and German speakers literally live with these giant mountains in their backyard, so they needed their own word for 'super mountainous.'

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