hogback

/ˈhɔɡˌbæk/
noun
  1. A narrow, steep-sided ridge of land that looks like the back of a hog (pig).
    • From the airplane, we could see several hogbacks rising sharply from the flat plains.
    • The hikers followed the trail along the top of the hogback, with steep drops on both sides.
    • The geologist explained that the hogback was formed by erosion of softer rock layers.
  2. A type of roof that curves upward in the middle, like the back of a hog.
    • The architect pointed out the hogback ridge on the roof as a traditional feature.
    • The old barn had a hogback roof that gave it a distinctive shape.
    • They chose a hogback design for the cabin to match the rustic landscape.
Synonyms