The word steepened is spelled as /ˈstiːpənd/ in IPA phonetic transcription. The first syllable is pronounced as "stee" with a long vowel sound, followed by the consonant blend "pənd" which is pronounced as "pend". The word is derived from the base word steep and the suffix -en. The suffix -en is used to form a verb indicating a change to or progression of the base word. Therefore, steepened means to make something steeper or more steep.
Steepened is a verb that refers to the act of making something steeper or increasing the steepness of something. It describes the action of changing the slope or incline of an object or surface to make it more angled, precipitous, or slanted. This term is often used to describe physical landscapes, terrains, or gradients that have been altered to become steeper.
In a literal sense, steepening can involve various activities or modifications to the topography, such as digging, excavation, grading, or building structures like embankments or retaining walls. It may also involve artificial changes made to existing slopes, hillsides, or embankments, intentionally increasing their angle of inclination.
Metaphorically, steepened can also describe the intensification of abstract concepts or situations. For instance, one might say that a problem or challenge has steepened, meaning that it has become more difficult, complex, or demanding. It can also be used to portray a significant increase in the degree or intensity of emotions, tensions, or conflicts.
In summary, steepened is a verb that denotes the act of making something steeper or increasing its inclination or intensity. It can refer to both physical changes in the landscape or abstract alterations in challenges or emotions.
Note.-The two preceding entries are closely connected. "The sense of soaking is incidental to that of dipping, and from the idea of dipping or tumbling to that of steepness or abrupt inclination is an easy step.".
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "steepened" is derived from the base word "steep", which originated from the Old English word "stēapian" meaning "to make steep". The suffix "-en" is added to the base word to form the verb "steepened", which means to become or make steeper. The suffix "-en" is a common Old English suffix used to create verbs from nouns or adjectives.