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Ocean Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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ocean

[ˈəʊʃ(ə)n ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

body of water

An ocean is a vast body of salt water that covers almost three-quarters of the Earth's surface. Oceans are divided into different regions based on their depths, temperatures, and marine life. They play a crucial role in regulating the Earth's climate and are home to a diverse range of ecosystems.

Synonyms

blue, deep, sea.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
ocean

Use this word when referring to one of the vast and major bodies of salt water that covers most of the Earth's surface. It is more formal and scientific.

  • The Pacific Ocean is the largest ocean on Earth
  • We enjoyed a cruise across the Atlantic Ocean
sea

This refers to a large body of saltwater that is smaller than an ocean and often partially enclosed by land. It can also be used more generally than 'ocean'.

  • We sailed across the Mediterranean Sea
  • The Black Sea is bordered by several countries
deep

Typically used to describe something that has a large distance from the top to the bottom. It can also describe profoundness or intensity.

  • The submarine dived into the deep ocean
  • His voice had a deep, resonant quality
blue

This word describes the color, especially when referring to the sea or sky. It is less specific and more descriptive.

  • The blue sky was clear and bright
  • From the beach, we could see the deep blue sea

Examples of usage

  • The Pacific Ocean is the largest and deepest ocean on Earth.
  • Marine biologists study the impact of pollution on ocean ecosystems.
  • Ocean currents help distribute heat around the globe.
Context #2 | Noun

endless expanse

The ocean often symbolizes a vast and endless expanse, representing the unknown and mysterious. It is a source of inspiration for artists, writers, and dreamers, evoking feelings of freedom, exploration, and adventure.

Synonyms

expanse, infinity, sea.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
ocean

Use 'ocean' to describe the large body of saltwater that covers a significant portion of Earth's surface. It is commonly used in scientific and everyday contexts.

  • The Pacific Ocean is the largest and deepest of Earth's oceanic divisions.
  • We went on a cruise across the Atlantic Ocean last year.
sea

Use 'sea' to describe a smaller body of saltwater that is partially enclosed by land. It can also be used more casually to describe any large body of saltwater. It is often less formal than 'ocean.'

  • We spent our vacation at the Mediterranean Sea.
  • The captain sailed his ship across the rough seas.
expanse

Use 'expanse' to describe a wide, open area of land, sky, or water. It is often used to emphasize the vastness or openness of an area and can be applied to both literal and figurative contexts.

  • The Sahara Desert is a vast expanse of sand.
  • The expanse of the night sky was filled with countless stars.
infinity

Use 'infinity' to describe something that is limitless, endless, or without bounds. This usage is often more abstract and philosophical, sometimes related to time, space, or numbers.

  • The concept of infinity has fascinated mathematicians for centuries.
  • Looking at the stars made him ponder the infinity of the universe.

Examples of usage

  • She stared out at the ocean, feeling a sense of peace and wonder.
  • The ocean's horizon seemed to stretch on forever, blending with the sky.
  • His mind was like an ocean, full of unexplored depths and hidden treasures.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Science

  • The oceans cover about 71% of the Earth's surface, making them the largest ecosystems on the planet.
  • Ocean water is salty because it contains dissolved minerals, primarily sodium and chloride, as a result of erosion and underwater volcanic activity.
  • The ocean plays a critical role in regulating the Earth's climate by absorbing heat and carbon dioxide.

Cultural Significance

  • Many cultures have deep connections with the ocean, seeing it as a source of life, livelihoods, and inspiration in art and literature.
  • The ocean has served as a symbol of adventure and exploration, sparking the imagination of travelers and explorers throughout history.

Environmental Impact

  • Oceans help produce more than half of the world's oxygen through the action of tiny organisms like phytoplankton.
  • Coral reefs, often referred to as the 'rainforests of the sea', provide vital habitats for numerous marine species but are currently threatened by climate change.

Pop Culture

  • Many popular movies and books feature the ocean, from adventure tales like 'Finding Nemo' to classics like 'Moby Dick'.
  • The ocean has inspired countless songs and artistic movements, reflecting its beauty and power.

Origin of 'ocean'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'ocean' comes from the Greek word 'okeanos', which used to describe the great river encircling the Earth.
  • In ancient myths, the ocean was often viewed as a deity, representing both mystery and vastness.

The word 'ocean' comes from the Old French word 'oceane' and the Latin word 'Oceanus', which refers to the great river or sea surrounding the known world in ancient Greek and Roman mythology. The concept of oceans has evolved over centuries, with early civilizations viewing them as mysterious and dangerous realms. Exploration and trade across oceans have shaped human history and culture, leading to a deeper understanding of these vast bodies of water.

See also: oceanfront, oceanic, oceanography, oceanology.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #2,922, this word belongs to solid intermediate vocabulary. It's frequently used in both casual and formal contexts and is worth learning for better fluency.