1. Plural of arete: a sharp ridge on a mountain, especially one formed by glacial erosion.
Usage: geography; mountaineering
2. Plural of arete: in ancient Greek philosophy and ethics, excellence or virtue, especially as a quality of character or skill.
Usage: classical; philosophy

Examples

• The climbers navigated the sharp aretes along the ridge with great care.
• Alpine aretes are often formed by the erosive power of glaciers on both sides of a mountain.
• In ancient Greece, athletes strived to achieve aretes in both body and mind.
• The philosopher discussed various aretes that defined a virtuous citizen.
• The jagged aretes of the Matterhorn create a dramatic silhouette against the sky.