Pronunciation: [skɹˈiːz] (IPA) 
The term "screes" refers to a pile of loose, rocky debris that often results from erosion. Its spelling may seem unusual to some, as it is pronounced with a silent "c" and with a long "e" sound, as in "me". In IPA phonetic transcription, its pronunciation is written as /skriːz/. This phonetic spelling reveals that the "c" is not pronounced at all, and that the syllable stress is placed on the "ee" sound in the word.
Screes refer to an accumulation of loose, fragmented rocks or debris found on the slopes of mountains, hills, or cliffs. These rocky deposits are typically a result of weathering, erosion, or geological processes that have dislodged larger rocks, causing them to break into smaller fragments. Screes are commonly composed of various types of rocks, such as gravel, pebbles, boulders, and angular or rounded stones. Their sizes can range from small pebbles to large blocks, and their surfaces often appear irregular and unstable.
Screes are often found in mountainous or steep terrain, where the constant action of gravity, weathering, and erosion causes rocks to dislodge and cascade downhill. The accumulation of these loose rocks forms a steep slope or talus, which usually appears as a rough, jumbled mass. Screes can be found at the base of cliffs or slopes, where they provide a physical barrier against erosion and can absorb the energy of falling rocks. They also serve as an indicator of dynamic geological activity and can be valuable in understanding the historical processes shaping a landscape.
In mountaineering or hiking contexts, screes can present challenges, as they can be unstable and difficult to traverse. Stepping or walking on screes can cause rocks to shift or roll, leading to potential slips or falls. Additionally, screes may create challenging or treacherous conditions during descent, as the loose composition of the rocks can make it hard to find solid footing. Proper precautions, such as wearing appropriate footwear and maintaining caution, are recommended when navigating screes to minimize the risks associated with them.
The word "screes" is derived from the Old Norse word "skritha", which means "landslide" or "rockfall". It later entered Middle English as "skre", which referred to loose, broken rock fragments found on hillsides or mountains. Over time, the word evolved into "screes" and continued to be used to describe these accumulations of loose rocks. The term is most commonly associated with mountainous regions with steep slopes or cliffs, where scree deposits are frequently found.
