Steepen/ˈstiːpən/ Definition 1 of 2Pro Tip 1/3Physical Steepening Used when discussing actual physical inclines, like hills or ramps. The road steepens after the bridge, so be ready to pedal harder. Pro Tip 2/3Metaphorical Use Sometimes used metaphorically to describe a situation becoming more intense or difficult. The challenge will steepen as the deadline approaches. Pro Tip 3/3Emotional Impact Can convey a sense of increasing difficulty or effort required. As the discussion continued, the tension in the room steepened.