The word "craggy" /ˈkræɡi/ is spelled with a "ggy" because it's derived from the noun "crag", which refers to a steep, rugged rock or cliff. Adding the suffix "-y" to "crag" makes it an adjective, indicating that something has the qualities of a crag. The double "g" is needed to maintain the hard "g" sound that the base word has. So, the spelling of "craggy" reflects both the definition and pronunciation of the word.
Craggy is an adjective used to describe a surface or terrain that is rough, uneven, and characterized by rocky or jagged features. When referring to a person's appearance, it denotes their facial features as rugged, angular, and defined.
In relation to landscapes, craggy describes areas with steep cliffs, deep crevices, and prominent rocky outcrops. It emphasizes the presence of sharp, irregular edges, and rough rock formations. Craggy landscapes are often associated with mountainous regions, coastal cliffs, or canyons that have been shaped by erosion over time.
When used to describe a person's facial features, craggy generally implies a weathered appearance. It suggests a face with prominent bone structure, deep lines, and sharp angles. These features may be a result of aging, exposure to the elements, or a naturally rugged appearance.
The term craggy can also be metaphorical, applied to describe ideas, voices, or writing styles that possess a rough, coarse, or unpolished quality. In these contexts, it signifies a certain rawness, authenticity, or unconventional charm. It can be used to describe an artist's work, a singer's voice, or a writer's prose that is distinctive and marked by strong, unrefined qualities.
Overall, craggy is a term that conveys a sense of strength, ruggedness, and individuality when used to describe surfaces, landscapes, or human features.
Covered with crags or broken rocks; rugged.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "craggy" has its origins in the Old Norse language. It is derived from the Old Norse word "kragr", which means "hook" or "bent". Over time, this term evolved in Middle English to become "craggy", which specifically describes terrain or surfaces that are rugged, rough, or jagged in nature. The word is often used to describe the uneven and steep appearance of cliffs or rocky landscapes.