cliff dweller

noun

1. (usually initial capital letter) a member of a prehistoric people of the southwestern U.S., who were ancestors of the Pueblo Indians and built shelters in caves or on the ledges of cliffs.
2. a person who lives in an apartment house, especially in a large city.

Other Words From

• cliff dwelling noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of cliff dweller¹

An Americanism dating back to 1880–85

Example Sentences

In the West this swallow is wholly a cliff-dweller, but it has learned to modify its home in different localities.

From Project Gutenberg

One cony had a series of connected rooms, enough almost for a cliff-dweller city.

From Project Gutenberg

Is it possible that at this place some Cliff-Dweller scouts encountered their advancing foe from the north and opened hostilities?

From Project Gutenberg

The designs are similar to those found on cliff-dweller pottery.

From Project Gutenberg

"I already have it, Boy-of-the-eyes-of-glass," replied the engaging cliff-dweller.

From Project Gutenberg