steep
STEEP
/stiːp/
To soak in water or other liquid so as to extract its flavor or to soften it.
Commonly used for tea; as an adjective, it means a sharp angle or a high price.
The story behind the word. Likely from the Old Norse 'steypa', meaning to pour out or empty. It evolved from the idea of pouring liquid over something to let it soak.
Word relationships
- soak: Soak is more general; steep is specifically for extraction.
Commonly confused with
- step: A step is a movement of the foot; steep is to soak.
Word family
- steeping (noun): The process of soaking.
Collocations
- steep tea
- steeped in history
- steep price
Idioms & expressions
- steeped in
Example sentences
- "You should steep the Earl Grey for exactly four minutes for the best flavor." Making tea.
- "The young scholar spent the summer trying to steep himself in the local culture." Metaphorical immersion.
Memory hook
A 'steep' hill takes time to climb; 'steep' tea takes time to soak. Soak for flavor.
When not to use
Don't use 'steep' for soaking meat in a marinade; use 'marinate'.
Fun facts
- The word 'steep' as an adjective (meaning a sharp slope) actually comes from a different Old English root meaning 'high' or 'lofty'.
Also appears in
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