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Fjord Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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fjord

[fjษ”หrd ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

geography

A long, narrow inlet with steep sides or cliffs, created by glacial erosion.

Synonyms

channel, inlet, sound.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
fjord

Mostly used to describe a long, narrow, deep inlet of the sea between high cliffs, typically formed by the submergence of a glaciated valley. It is commonly found in Norway and New Zealand.

  • The fjord was breathtaking, with steep cliffs rising straight out of the waters.
  • We booked a cruise to explore the famous fjords of Norway.
inlet

An inlet is a small arm of the sea, a lake, or a river. It often refers to a narrow body of water between islands or leading inland from a larger body of water, and it's typically smaller than a fjord.

  • We found a quiet inlet to anchor our boat and swim in the calm waters.
  • The inlet was surrounded by dense forests and offered a serene getaway.
channel

A channel is a wide strait or waterway between two landmasses that lie close to each other, often used for navigation. It can also refer to a part of a river or harbor deep enough for boats to navigate.

  • The English Channel separates the southern coast of England from the northern coast of France.
  • Boats navigated through the narrow channel to reach the harbor.
sound

A sound is a large sea or ocean inlet deeper than a bight and wider than a fjord, or it can be a narrow sea or ocean channel between two bodies of land. It is often used to describe larger coastal bodies of water.

  • Puget Sound in Washington State is known for its scenic beauty and marine life.
  • The sailors navigated through the sound with ease, thanks to the calm waters.

Examples of usage

  • The fjords of Norway are famous for their breathtaking beauty.
  • The boat navigated through the narrow fjord surrounded by towering cliffs.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Geography

  • Fjords are typically formed by glacial activity, where glaciers carve deep valleys that later fill with seawater.
  • Norway is famous for its fjords, with over 1,000 fjords dotting its coastline, including the stunning Geirangerfjord.
  • The steep walls of fjords can rise up to 1,400 meters (about 4,593 feet) creating dramatic landscapes.

Cultural Significance

  • Fjords often play a significant role in local cultures, with many communities relying on fishing, tourism, and sailing.
  • In Norway, the natural beauty of fjords has inspired painters, writers, and musicians throughout history, becoming iconic symbols.

Wildlife

  • Fjords are rich in marine life, attracted by the mixing of saltwater and freshwater, often supporting diverse ecosystems.
  • Seals, otters, and various seabirds are commonly seen in fjord environments, thriving in these unique habitats.

Tourism

  • Fjords are major tourist attractions, with visitors drawn to their remarkable scenery, hiking opportunities, and boat tours.
  • Norway's fjords have been designated UNESCO World Heritage Sites, highlighting their significance and natural beauty.

Origin of 'fjord'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'fjord' comes from Old Norse 'fjarรฐr', meaning 'to cross' or 'to traverse', reflecting their historical role as travel routes.
  • Related words include 'fiord' and 'fyrd', showing variations in spelling and pronunciation across languages like Danish and Swedish.

The word 'fjord' originated from the Norwegian 'fjord', which means 'inlet of the sea'. Fjords are commonly found in Norway, Alaska, Greenland, and other regions with a history of glacial activity. These deep, narrow waterways are a result of glacial erosion over thousands of years, creating stunning landscapes that attract tourists from around the world.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #25,586, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.