--- In ranchos@yahoogroups.com, "John Gonzalez" <1gnzlz@v...> wrote:
> 
> I remember seen a definition of cerro as backbone, or espinazo. 
Cerros means a small mountain.  It goes: Loma, cerro, montaña y
sierra, degrees according to size.  Sierra means "saw" as the tool the
carpenters use.  The name  "sierra" was given to the mountain chain
because they resemble the teeth of a  saw. There is only one Sierra
Nevada, it was named for its snow covered peaks.  I just cringe when I
hear statements in the media such as:  "Great week-end to visit the
sierras"  TV people  (professionals?)  Should know that there is only
one "Sierra" .

Right, John.  Unless they're referring to México's sierras.  ;-)

http://www.galeon.com/cumbres/Archivos/orografia.htm