rhizoverbBeta
DictionarysierraJagged mountain range
noun

sierra

see-AIR-uh/siˈerə/

A rugged mountain range with a jagged outline.

The sierra forms a jagged skyline above the foothills.

A majestic jagged mountain range with a clear sawtooth skyline, dry foothills and natural rock colors.
Etymology
sierraLatinsaw

The root means “saw,” and Spanish sierra applies that image to a jagged mountain range. The peaks resemble the teeth along a saw's cutting edge.

More examples

  • They crossed a remote sierra.
  • Several sierras rose beyond the valley.
  • The sierra caught the evening light.

Forms

sierra · sierras

Similar words

range
The general mountain grouping without a jagged-outline emphasis.
ridge
Usually one long crest rather than an entire range.