slope
This word evokes a sense of gradual transition and gravitational pull. It describes a steady incline or decline rather than a sudden drop or a flat plane, creating a visual image of a diagonal line cutting across a landscape.
Countable when referring to a specific hillside or a geometric line on a graph. Uncountable when referring to the general quality of being inclined.
Meanings
A surface of which one end or side is at a higher level than another.
"The skiers glided down the steep slope of the mountain."
A gradual decline in amount, value, or intensity over a period of time.
"The economic data shows a downward slope in consumer spending."
The degree of inclination of a line or surface relative to a horizontal plane.
"The slope of the roof is designed to let snow slide off easily."
To slant or incline a surface in a particular direction.
"The architects decided to slope the ceiling to create more space."
To incline from a horizontal position.
"The garden slopes gently down toward the river."
Examples
The skiers glided down the steep slope of the mountain.
The economic data shows a downward slope in consumer spending.
The slope of the roof is designed to let snow slide off easily.
The architects decided to slope the ceiling to create more space.
The garden slopes gently down toward the river.
Phrasal Verbs
slope down
to incline gradually toward a lower level
The hillside slopes down to a small creek.
slope up
to incline gradually toward a higher level
The path slopes up toward the summit of the hill.
slope away
to incline in a direction that leads away from a specific point
The land slopes away from the house to prevent flooding.