Part of Speech

Noun, Verb

Pronunciation

/beɪ/

Definitions

1. (Noun) A body of water partially enclosed by land but with an opening to the sea, typically smaller than a gulf.

2. (Noun) A recess or an inlet in a coastline or shoreline.

3. (Verb) To bark or howl loudly, often used in reference to dogs.

4. (Verb) To corner or trap someone, as in "the dog was baying the fox into a corner."

Usage Examples

• "The boat anchored in the calm bay, sheltered from the rough seas."
• "The hunters heard the baying of the hounds as they chased the fox."
• "The beach is located at the end of the bay, offering a serene view of the water."

Etymology

The word "bay" comes from the Old French "baee," meaning "a mouth or opening" or "a bay," which itself derives from the Latin "baja," meaning "a small bay" or "an inlet." The word has been in use in English since the 14th century.

Synonyms

• Gulf
• Inlet
• Harbor
• Cove
• Lagoon

Antonyms

• Mountain
• Desert
• Plain
• Plateau

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

• Standard English: /beɪ/
• American English: /beɪ/ (same as standard)
• British English: /beɪ/ (same as standard)

Historical Usage

The word "bay" has been used since the Old French period and was initially applied to coastal inlets or small bodies of water. Over time, it extended to mean any body of water surrounded by land. This usage became common in maritime terminology, which continues to be used in navigation and geography today.

Cultural Nuances

"Bay" often carries a sense of peacefulness and serenity, especially when referring to smaller inlets or sheltered bodies of water. In literature and art, bays are frequently depicted as tranquil, reflecting themes of calmness, seclusion, or the meeting of land and sea.

More Information

Bays are important geographical features found around the world. They are typically protected from open sea waves by natural land formations, which makes them popular locations for harbors, settlements, and ports. Bays are also critical ecosystems, providing habitats for various species of marine life.