n. [ F. escarpe (cf. Sp. escarpa, It. scarpa), fr. escarper to cut steep, cut to a slope, prob. of German origin: cf. G. scharf sharp, E. sharp, or perh. scrape. ] (Fort.) The side of the ditch next the parapet; -- same as scarp, and opposed to counterscarp. [ 1913 Webster ]

v. t. [ imp. & p. p. Escarped p. pr. & vb. n. Escarping. ] (Mil.) To make into, or furnish with, a steep slope, like that of a scrap. Carleton. [ 1913 Webster ]

n. [ Cf. F. escarpement. ] A steep descent or declivity; steep face or edge of a ridge; ground about a fortified place, cut away nearly vertically to prevent hostile approach. See Scarp. [ 1913 Webster ]