Glacis

/ɡləˈsi/ noun

Definition

A gently sloping embankment or ice-covered slope, especially one leading down from a fortification or glacier.

Etymology

From French 'glacis' (slippery), related to 'glace' (ice). The term originated in military architecture to describe defensive slopes, then was applied to glacier-formed terrain.

Kelly Says

A glacis was a military genius move—the sloping ground meant attackers couldn't hide or climb easily, but it also naturally forms where glaciers slowly melt and reshape landscapes!

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