canyon

noun

can·​yon ˈkan-yən 

variants or less commonly cañon

1

: a deep narrow valley with steep sides and often with a stream flowing through it

2

: something resembling a canyon

the city's concrete canyons

Synonyms of canyon

• ravine
• gorge
• valley

Examples of canyon in a Sentence

as the scouts made their way through the canyon, they marveled at the sheer walls of rock on both sides

Recent Examples on the Web

This Shady Canyon Golf Club is one of Orange County‘s most exclusive enclaves with captivating rock formations and lush fairways spread across 300 acres in a secluded canyon setting. — Demetrius Simms, Robb Report, 29 June 2026

Set on 12 acres abutting Carson National Forest in Abiquiu, the property has three kiva fireplaces, radiant heated floors, and a private box canyon to explore—which is an incredible selling point on its own. — Angela Tafoya, Vogue, 29 June 2026

In southwest Utah, the Cottonwood fire has exploded to more than 144 square miles, tearing through canyons, ski terrain and cabins as steep cliffs hamper ground crews and heavy equipment. — Ty Oneil, Los Angeles Times, 28 June 2026

Travelers along Interstate 70 have been warned to expect smoky conditions and use their headlights while entering low-lying canyon areas. — Logan Smith, CBS News, 28 June 2026

Word History

Etymology

American Spanish cañón, probably alteration of obsolete Spanish callón, augmentative of calle street, from Latin callis footpath

First Known Use

1834, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for canyon

• anion
• banyan
• carbanion
• companion

Kids Definition

canyon

noun

can·​yon

variants also cañon

ˈkan-yən

: a deep narrow valley with steep sides and often with a stream flowing through it