Rockfalls can be dangerous and sometimes catastrophic. The term rockfall can be replaced by a number of synonyms that vary with the size, shape, and distance of the rocks that tumble down. Some of the synonyms that can be used for rockfall are landslide, rock avalanche, rockslide, slope failure, and debris fall. A landslide generally involves a wider area and higher volumes of debris as compared to rockfalls. A rock avalanche is a fast-moving and steep boulder slide that can bury everything in its path. Rockslides are smaller in size and distance, but can still cause significant damage. Slope failure is a slow process of rock disintegration and can cause debris to accumulate over time. Lastly, debris fall refers to rocks and other material that fall from a cliff or overhang.