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Definition of canyon

i. A long, deep, relatively narrow steep-sided valley confined between lofty and precipitous walls in a plateau or mountainous area, often with a stream at the bottom; similar to, but larger than, a gorge. It is characteristic of an arid or semiarid area (such as the Western United States) where stream downcutting greatly exceeds weathering; e.g., the Grand Canyon.

Ref: AGI

ii. Any valley in a region where canyons abound. Etymol: anglicized form of American Spanish canon.

Compare with: canada

iii. A precipitous valley; a gorge. Also spelled canon.

iv. Mex. A mine-level drift or gallery.


 
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