Here's why:

* Higher than the surrounding area: Mesas are elevated, standing out from the surrounding landscape.

* At least one steep side, a cliff: Mesas are characterized by having at least one very steep, often vertical, side that forms a cliff.

* Sometimes table land: The top of a mesa is often flat, resembling a table, which is why it's sometimes called "table land."

Other important details about mesas:

* They are formed by erosion, usually by wind or water.

* They are common in arid and semi-arid regions, like the southwestern United States.

* They can be quite large, ranging from a few acres to hundreds of square miles.

Let me know if you have any other questions about landforms!