How Do You Spell AYRES ROCK?

Pronunciation: [ˈe͡əz ɹˈɒk] (IPA)

The proper spelling of the famous Australian landmark commonly known as "Ayres Rock" is actually Uluru. The name of the rock formation was changed to its Aboriginal name in 1993, in recognition of the traditional custodians, the Anangu people. The misconception of its name can be attributed to English speakers mishearing the Aboriginal pronunciation of Uluru, which is pronounced [uluɻu]. The English spelling of the Aboriginal name, Uluru, is [ʊˈlʊɹʊ].

Meaning and Definition
Common Misspellings
Etymology
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AYRES ROCK Meaning and Definition

  1. Ayres Rock, also known as Uluru, is a prominent and iconic geological formation located in the southern part of the Northern Territory, Australia. It is a massive sandstone rock formation that rises abruptly from the arid and flat landscape of the surrounding desert.

    Ayres Rock is considered one of Australia's most famous natural landmarks and is recognized worldwide for its cultural and spiritual significance to the Indigenous Anangu people, the traditional custodians of the area. It holds great importance in their creation myths and is a site for various ceremonies and rituals.

    The rock itself has a distinct reddish-brown hue, which is particularly striking during sunrise and sunset when it undergoes vivid color changes. It has a circumference of nearly 9.4 kilometers (5.8 miles) and a height of approximately 348 meters (1,142 feet), making it an imposing natural formation.

    Ayres Rock attracts thousands of tourists annually, who often undertake guided tours and hikes to explore its various caves, rock art sites, and natural formations. In recent years, efforts have been made to promote cultural sensitivity and respect for the Anangu people's sacred sites and traditions when visiting Ayres Rock.

    Overall, Ayres Rock holds immense geological, cultural, and symbolic significance, making it an integral part of Australia's natural and cultural heritage.

Common Misspellings for AYRES ROCK

  • Ayers Rock
  • Ayre Rock
  • Ayr Rock

Etymology of AYRES ROCK

The word "Ayres Rock" or "Uluru", as it is commonly referred to now, has its etymology deeply rooted in the local indigenous language. The rock formation, located in the Northern Territory of Australia, holds great cultural significance for the Anangu people, who are the traditional owners and custodians of the land.

In their language, Pitjantjatjara, the name for the rock is "Uluru", which roughly translates to "big rock" or "great rock". "Uluru" accurately describes the impressive size and scale of this natural wonder.

The name "Ayres Rock" was given to the formation by European explorers and settlers. It honored Sir Henry Ayers, who served as the Chief Secretary of South Australia and was a prominent figure during the mid-19th century. The term "Ayres Rock" gained popularity and eventually became its commonly known name.