from
The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48
Steep \Steep\, a. [Compar. {Steeper} (-[~e]r); superl.
{Steepest}.] [OE. steep, step, AS. ste['a]p; akin to Icel.
steyp[eth]r steep, and st[=u]pa to stoop, Sw. stupa to fall,
to tilt; cf. OFries. stap high. Cf. {Stoop}, v. i., {Steep},
v. t., {Steeple}.]
1. Making a large angle with the plane of the horizon;
ascending or descending rapidly with respect to a
horizontal line or a level; precipitous; as, a steep hill
or mountain; a steep roof; a steep ascent; a steep
declivity; a steep barometric gradient.
[1913 Webster]
2. Difficult of access; not easily reached; lofty; elevated;
high. [Obs.] --Chapman.
[1913 Webster]
3. Excessive; as, a steep price. [Slang]
[1913 Webster]