How Do You Spell MORBIHAN?

Pronunciation: [mˈɔːbɪhˌan] (IPA)

Morbihan is a department in France with a somewhat tricky spelling. The word is pronounced /mɔʁ.bi.ɑ̃/ in IPA phonetics, which gives insight to its spelling. The first syllable is spelled with an 'o' but pronounced with an open-mid back rounded vowel ('ɔ'), while the second syllable is pronounced with a nasal vowel ('ɑ̃') that is spelled with an 'a' followed by a nasal consonant. The tricky part comes with the silent 'h' in the middle, which is not pronounced but affects the quality of the preceding vowel.

Meaning and Definition
Etymology
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MORBIHAN Meaning and Definition

  1. Morbihan is a term that refers to several different meanings depending on the context. Primarily, Morbihan is the name of a department located in the Brittany region of western France. It is one of the 101 departments that make up the administrative divisions of the country. Established during the French Revolution, Morbihan has Vannes as its prefecture and is known for its rich historical and cultural heritage, including the famous megalithic sites of Carnac.

    In addition to its regional significance, Morbihan can also refer to the eponymous body of water that lies at the southern part of the Brittany peninsula. It is an inlet of the Atlantic Ocean and forms a natural harbor, playing a significant role in the maritime activities of the region. The Morbihan Gulf, as it is often called, attracts tourists and sailors alike due to its picturesque landscapes, islands, and sailing opportunities.

    Lastly, Morbihan can also be the name of a specific yacht racing class. The Morbihan class is a category of sailing boats that are popular in the Gulf of Morbihan. These boats are typically small, agile, and easily maneuverable, making them well-suited for racing in coastal or inland waters.

    Overall, Morbihan is a multifaceted term referring to a department in France, a body of water, and a type of sailing boat, each with its own distinct characteristics and significance.

Etymology of MORBIHAN

The word "Morbihan" is derived from the Breton language, which is spoken in Brittany, France. In Breton, "mor" means "sea" and "bihan" means "little". Thus, "Morbihan" translates to "little sea" or "small sea" in English. It is a fitting name for the department in Brittany as Morbihan is surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean and has a significant coastline.