Etymology

First attested in 1598, from Latin , from , from + . First meaning of the noun is recorded from 1632.

Noun

1. A very steep cliff.
   • 1719- Daniel Defoe, Robinson Crusoe

     I resolved to remove my tent from the place where it stood, which was just under the hanging precipice of the hill; and which, if it should be shaken again, would certainly fall upon my tent...

2. The brink of a dangerous situation.

   to stand on a precipice

3. A headlong fall or descent.