ravine
UK[rəˈviːn]US[rəˈviːn]
n
A deep, narrow gorge with steep sides, often formed by running water.
Etymology
The word "ravine" entered English in the 15th century from the French word of the same spelling, meaning "violent rush of water" or "torrent." The French term derives from the Latin rapīna, meaning "robbery" or "plunder," which itself comes from rapere, "to seize or carry off." This semantic evolution—from the act of seizing to a torrent of water and finally to the landform it carves—vividly illustrates the perceived action of a powerful, erosive stream "snatching away" earth and rock to create a deep gully.
Analysis
The word is a simplex loanword from French. It does not contain separable, meaningful morphemes within its modern English spelling.
Examples
The hikers carefully descended into the steep-sided ravine.
After the heavy rains, a small stream flowed at the bottom of the ravine.
The ancient city was hidden in a remote ravine, protected by the cliffs.