geography - Word for inlets of a mountain


Can the word inlet be used for mountains, too? I'm looking for a word that describes valleys that reach into the mountain, but don't go across it.


Here is a picture that tries to describe what I'm looking for.


Diagram of geography


I found this picture with a coulee. Is that a good word?


I'm not specifically looking for steep valleys or canyons, but rather for soft valleys.


EDIT: Thanks a lot for the input. I think I'm going with “a valley that reaches into the mountain but doesn't cross it”. I think notch is also good, but isn't as easy to understand for non-native speakers, which are my targeted readers. Seems like notch isn't what I want either. Maybe combe?



Answer



I suggest valley or, more specifically, U-shaped valley which, I presume means open-ended.


enter image description here http://www.sciencepartners.info/?page_id=1253


ravine a small, deep, narrow valley


cirque A steep-walled hollow in a mountain side, shaped like an amphitheater, or bowl, with one side partially cut away. Place of origin of a mountain glacier.


gully a ravine formed by the action of water.


couloir a steep gorge or gully on the side of a mountain, especially in the Alps.


Update


I have found a diagram that I think covers the subject pretty adequately.


enter image description here


Picture from compassdude.com


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