The word "sheer" is often used to describe something that is steep, very thin, or complete and utter in nature. It can refer to a physical characteristic, such as a cliff that rises straight up, or it can describe something that is entirely and unequivocally true, like sheer determination or sheer happiness. Additionally, "sheer" can refer to fabrics that are very thin and transparent, like a sheer curtain.
The word "sheer" comes from the Old English "sċēar," which meant "shear," indicating the act of cutting or separating. The meaning evolved over time to include notions of transparency and steepness.