Cliff vs. Escarpment — What's the Difference?

In geography and geology, a cliff is an area of rock which has a general angle defined by the vertical, or nearly vertical. Cliffs are formed by the processes of weathering and erosion, with the effect of gravity.

An escarpment is a steep slope or long cliff that forms as a result of faulting or erosion and separates two relatively level areas having different elevations. The terms scarp and scarp face are often used interchangeably with escarpment.

A steep rock face, especially at the edge of the sea

A long, steep slope, especially one at the edge of a plateau or separating areas of land at different heights.

A high, steep, or overhanging face of rock.

A steep slope or long cliff that results from erosion or faulting and separates two relatively level areas of differing elevations.

A vertical (or nearly vertical) rock face.

A steep slope in front of a fortification.

(figurative) A point where something abruptly fails or decreases in value etc.

A steep descent or declivity; steep face or edge of a ridge; ground about a fortified place, cut away nearly vertically to prevent hostile approach.

A high, steep rock; a precipice.

A steep descent or declivity; steep face or edge of a ridge; ground about a fortified place, cut away nearly vertically to prevent hostile approach. See Scarp.

See Clef.

A long steep slope or cliff at the edge of a plateau or ridge; usually formed by erosion

A steep high face of rock;

A steep artificial slope in front of a fortification