scarp

 
Pronunciation: /skɑːp/

noun

  • a very steep bank or slope; an escarpment: the north face is a very steep scarp
  • the inner wall of a ditch in a fortification. Compare with counterscarp.

verb

[with object]
  • cut or erode (a slope or hillside) so that it becomes steep, perpendicular, or precipitous: (as adjective scarped) the scarped edge of the central plateau
  • provide (a ditch in a fortification) with a steep scarp and counterscarp.

Origin:

late 16th century (with reference to fortification): from Italian scarpa