Strait: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• The term 'strait' comes from the Old French word 'estreit,' meaning narrow, which itself is derived from the Latin 'strictus,' meaning drawn tight.
• Although we often hear 'strait' related to water, it has also been used historically to describe a difficult situation or 'straitened circumstances.'

Geography

• One of the most famous straits is the Strait of Gibraltar, which separates Europe and Africa and links the Atlantic Ocean to the Mediterranean Sea.
• The Bering Strait is notable for separating the continents of Asia and North America, and it's also famous for the legend of land bridges that existed in prehistoric times.

Navigation

• Straits are crucial for maritime navigation because they often serve as key routes for ships traveling between different bodies of water.
• Many major cities, including Istanbul and Panama City, are located near straits due to their strategic importance for trade and transportation.

Environmental Significance

• Straits can be home to unique ecosystems, supporting a variety of marine life that thrive in the connection between larger bodies of water.
• They can also be affected by tidal actions, which influence local marine weather patterns and biodiversity.

Cultural References

• In literature, straits can symbolize a difficult decision or a transitional journey, as characters navigate through constricted paths.
• Songs and stories often reference straits as settings for adventure, struggle, or discovery, reflecting their challenges and opportunities.

At position #14,148, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.

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• 14145 turret
• 14146 motel
• 14147 boulder
• 14148 strait
• 14149 prostrate
• 14150 averse
• 14151 invalidate
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