What does hill mean?
A hill is a raised area of land that is generally smaller and less steep than a mountain, though the distinction is relative rather than absolute. The word applies both to natural slopes and to small, often deliberately formed rises in a landscape. Hills frequently serve as landmarks, viewpoints, boundaries, and places associated with walking, farming, or settlement. In British and American English, “hill” is also used as a verb in gardening, meaning to draw soil around the base of a plant, usually to protect it, support it, or encourage its growth. Although the vocabulary of elevations includes terms such as slope, rise, mound, and elevation, “hill” is the most general everyday term for a modest rise in the ground.
A naturally or artificially raised area of land, usually smaller than a mountain and rising gently from the surrounding ground.
"They built a small house on the hill above the river."
The term is general and informal in everyday use; “slope” or “elevation” may be more suitable in technical or surveying contexts.
To draw or pile soil around the base of a plant, especially for protection or support.
"She hilled the corn to cover the exposed roots."
This use is especially common in North American agricultural and gardening language.
Hills is the standard plural of the noun. The word is countable: “a hill,” “the hills,” “many hills.”
"The surrounding hills were covered in a light layer of snow."
A hill may be modest by mountain standards, but it can completely change the way a place feels: a town perched on one becomes a lookout, a landmark, and a destination.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of hill
The English word comes from Old English “hyll,” an inherited Germanic term for a raised piece of ground. It is cognate with forms in several Germanic languages, including Old Norse “hill” and Dutch “heuvel,” and ultimately with a Proto-Germanic root referring to an elevation or prominence. The modern noun developed through ordinary English sound changes, while compounds such as “hillside” and “hilltop” were formed directly from the established word.
Related word forms
How hill is actually used
In the verb sense, “hill” is especially associated with gardening and farming in North American English. The noun is common in both British and American English and can describe either a natural rise or a landscaped mound.
Easily confused with hill
A hill is a natural or landscaped rise in the ground, whereas a kiln is an enclosed structure used for firing pottery, bricks, or other materials.