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Glite Dictionary
😱 Very suspenseful 🏞️ At cliff edge ⏳ A suspense moment
cliffhanging

cliffhanging

5.9
At the edge of a cliff and hanging over a steep drop
  • adjective
  • /ˈklɪfˌhæŋɪŋ/
translation icon : precipitado
  • They built their house in a cliffhanging spot overlooking the valley below.

Examples

  • We enjoyed the cliffhanging views from the top.

  • The cliffhanging rock formations were breathtaking.

  • The ancient castle had a cliffhanging view that attracted many tourists.

  • Photographers love the cliffhanging location for its breathtaking scenery.

  • They built their house in a cliffhanging spot overlooking the valley below.

  • The ancient castle had a cliffhanging view that attracted many tourists.

  • Photographers love the cliffhanging location for its breathtaking scenery.

Synonyms

precipitous
vscliffhanging
6 7.7

A very steep slope like a cliff that is dangerous to climb

is about being positioned at an edge and appearing dramatic or precarious

Antonyms

safe
∞ 1.0

Not likely to be harmed or in danger

stable
473 2.3

Not likely to change and stays steady over time

How Precarious

cliffhanging
5.9
precarious
47 7.6
exposed
1 3.4
stable
473 2.3

Surface Forms

cliffhanging positive

Morphology

cliffhanging = cliff + hanging (transparent) = cliff + hang + ing

This sense is a literal composition of 'cliff' + 'hanging' meaning 'positioned at the edge of a cliff', so the meaning follows directly from the parts.

Etymology

Cliffhanging comes from the literal idea of something 'hanging' over a cliff, like a house or path at the edge, so it means 'positioned at the edge of a cliff'.