Final answer:
A large high land area that is generally flat is referred to as a plateau, an extensive landform elevated above its surroundings with a notably flat top and steep sides.
Step-by-step explanation:
A large high land area that is generally flat is known as a plateau. This geographic feature is elevated above its surroundings and covers a large region, being more extensive than a mesa. Plateaus can be found across the world, including significant ones like the Deccan Plateau in India and the Colorado Plateau in the United States. Plateaus are usually characterized by their flat tops and steep sides. Noteworthy examples of plateaus include the Tibetan Plateau, sometimes referred to as "the Roof of the World," which is situated over three miles above sea level and provides a dramatic example of this landform. Another important feature is the Appalachia Plateau, which holds abundant coal and iron geological resources.
The distinct features of plateaus make them unique compared to other landforms, like the precipice which is a steep or vertical face of rock, or the piedmont, an area of rolling hills typically found at the base of mountains. For instance, the Piedmont Province southeast of the Blue Ridge is characterized by such rolling hills and compared to the Appalachian Plateau, it is less elevated and has a different geological makeup.