Steep rock faces that rise sharply from the ground or sea, often with sheer vertical sides.
From Old English 'clif,' related to Old Norse 'klif' meaning a steep slope or mountainside. The word originally described any steep hillside, but evolved to specifically mean dramatic vertical rock formations.
Dover's white cliffs were so famous that they became the first thing invading forces would see from the sea, making them one of history's most strategic geographical features. The same word describes both terrifying natural hazards and beloved landscape icons.
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