険

けん【険】

1 〔難所〕 a dangerous spot; a difficult [dangerous, perilous] pass; 〔要害〕 a strategic point [position].

●アルプスの険 a steep pass in the Alps.

●かつて箱根の山は天下の険と言われた. The pass at Hakone was once considered the most dangerous in Japan. | The mountains of Hakone were once known as the most precipitous in the country.

2 〔とげとげしさ〕

●彼女は声に険があった. Her voice had a dangerous edge (to it).

●険のある目 sharp eyes

・険のある顔 a stern [severe] look [expression]

・険のある言葉 stinging words.