1. A very
tall mountain. Specifically, in the plural, the highest
chain of mountains in Europe, containing the lofty mountains of Switzerland, etc. "Nor
breath of
vernal air from
snowy alp." (Milton) "Hills
peep o'er hills, and alps on alps arise." (Pope)
2. Something lofty, or massive, or very
heavy to be surmounted.
The plural
form Alps is sometimes used as a singular. "The Alps doth spit."
Origin: L. Alpes the Alps, said to be of Celtic origin; cf. Gael. Alp a
tall mountain, Ir. Ailp any huge
mass or lump: cf. F. Alpes.
Source: Websters Vocabulary