col

word

/kɒl/
kol
/kɒl/
kol

Definition

A col is the lowest point on a ridge between two peaks, often used as a mountain pass or crossing point.

Usage & Nuances

'Col' is technical and mostly used in geography, mountaineering, and hiking contexts. Common in maps or descriptions of mountain routes. Often confused with 'saddle' (similar but not always identical). Rarely used in everyday speech.

Example Sentences

The hikers crossed the col before noon.

basic

A river sometimes flows through a col between mountains.

basic

The map shows a col close to the highest peak.

basic

We stopped to rest at the col before climbing the last ridge.

natural

That narrow col is often used by local shepherds and their flocks.

natural

If the weather turns bad, we'll take the lower col instead of the main trail.

natural