as in canyons
a narrow opening between hillsides or mountains that can be used for passage
at one point the steep, ice-encrusted walls of the couloir are no more than 50 feet apart
Synonyms & Similar Words
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Recent Examples of couloirs
For expert skiers, Arapahoe Basin’s East Wall is an irresistible swath of terrain riven by steep chutes and couloirs, all of it requiring hiking to access.
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John Meyer, Denver Post, 26 Feb. 2026
John Meyer, Denver Post, 26 Feb. 2026
Recent Examples of Synonyms for couloirs
Noun
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You’ll hike Zion’s canyons with an Indigenous guide while gaining insight into today’s challenges.—
The Editors,
Outside,
18 Mar. 2026
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That’s due in large part to its natural beauty—towering mountains, spectacular canyons, and rushing waters inspire hiking, biking, fly-fishing and a number of other outdoor pursuits.—
Amelia Mularz,
Architectural Digest,
17 Mar. 2026
Noun
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Ponds, streams, small ravines, and valleys provide drama throughout its 27 acres.—
Amy Waldman,
Travel + Leisure,
9 Mar. 2026
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If outside, seek shelter in low-lying areas like ditches or ravines.—
Caroline Zimmerman,
Kansas City Star,
6 Mar. 2026
Noun
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One of the most popular hikes—the Vikos Gorge—journeys through one of the deepest gorges, winding along quiet villages and monasteries.—
Nicole Kliest,
Vogue,
23 Mar. 2026
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The Bolaven Plateau is a place where remnants of ancient volcanic activity, such as lava cliffs and extinct volcanic craters, coexist with lush natural landscapes that feature breathtaking waterfalls, deep gorges, and dramatic riverscapes.—
Jasmine Ting,
Condé Nast Traveler,
20 Mar. 2026
Noun
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Snow accumulations in the valleys of 1 to 4 inches with the higher amounts likely in the western shores of Lake Tahoe.—
CA Weather Bot,
Sacbee.com,
31 Mar. 2026
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Near-record heat, gusty winds and dry conditions will create critical fire weather Monday across Colorado, including mountain valleys and the Interstate 25 corridor, according to the National Weather Service.—
Lauren Penington,
Denver Post,
30 Mar. 2026
Cite this Entry
“Couloirs.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/couloirs. Accessed 31 Mar. 2026.
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