尾根

• Reading: おね
• Romaji: one
• Kanji breakdown: 尾 (o/bi) — tail, end | 根 (ne/kon) — root, base
• Pronunciation: /o.ne/

Meaning

Ridge; ridgeline; crest. The elongated high point running along the top of a mountain or chain of hills.

A noun used in mountaineering, geography, and topographic description for the raised spine connecting mountain peaks. Walking along an 尾根 provides panoramic views but exposes hikers to wind and lightning. Contrasts with 谷 (valley) and 沢 (stream valley). Appears frequently in hiking guides, topographic maps, and mountain literature.

Examples

1. 尾根沿いに歩くと、雲海が両側に広がる絶景が見られた。 Walking along the ridge, we were treated to a breathtaking view of a sea of clouds spreading out on both sides.
2. 険しい尾根を越えるには十分な体力と装備が必要だ。 Crossing the steep ridge requires sufficient physical fitness and equipment.
3. 地形図で尾根を読む技術は、登山の基本スキルの一つだ。 The ability to read ridges on a topographic map is one of the basic skills of mountaineering.

Usage Guide

Context: mountaineering, geography, hiking, topography

Tone: neutral

Origin & History

Compound of 尾 (o, 'tail') and 根 (ne, 'root, base'). The image evokes an elongated tail-like ridge extending from the body of a mountain, with roots anchoring it to the terrain.

Cultural Context

Era: Classical–Modern

Generation: Adults

Social background: Universal