rhizoverbBeta
DictionarypromontoryProjecting high land
noun

promontory

PRAH-mun-tor-ee/ˈprɑːməntɔːri/

A high point of land extending into water or over lower ground.

A rocky promontory rises above the lake near our cabin.

An elevated rocky headland extends from a clearly connected mainland into blue water, with steep cliffs and water wrapping around its projecting tip.
Etymology
promontoryLatinmountain ridge, headland

Latin promunturium meant 'mountain ridge' or 'headland' and is probably related to a verb meaning 'jut out.' That probable connection captures the defining image: high land projecting beyond the coastline.

In context

Libranima12:41
standing midway in that vast rampart of islands, buttressed by that bold green promontory, known to seamen as Java Head
Moby Dick - Illustrated Audiobook for Focused Reading (Part 3/3)

More examples

  • The ship rounds the promontory and enters the harbor.
  • The trail ends on a promontory overlooking the valley.
  • Two steep promontories shelter the small bay.

Forms

promontory · promontories

Similar words

headland
Usually projects into water rather than over lower ground.
cape
Emphasizes a coastal projection rather than its elevation.