declivity

Definitions

de- (down) + clīvus (slope) + -ity = 'a downward slope.' The literal land counterpart of proclivity: where proclivity is a figurative 'forward lean,' declivity stays physical — a hillside falling away.

Example Sentences

• 1.

  The cottage sat at the foot of a gentle declivity.

• 2.

  Rainwater ran down the declivity into the stream.

Easily Confused

declivity vs acclivity — Both are slopes from clīvus. A declivity slopes down (de- 'down'); an acclivity slopes up (ad- 'toward, up'). Same hill, opposite directions of view.