Pre-cip'i-tous, a.

a. [Lat. præceps, It. & Sp. precipitoso, O. Fr. précipiteux. See PRECIPICE.]

1. Very steep; as, a precipitous cliff or mountain. “Hills as steep as they could be, without being precipitous.” W. Scott.
2. Headlong; directly or rapidly descending; as, a precipitous fall.
3. Hasty; rash; quick; sudden; precipitate. “Advice unsafe, precipitous, and bold.” Dryden.

A childish laugh Which even Marian's low, precipitous “hush” Had vainly interposed to put away. E. B. Browning.