détroit

strait, narrow channel

noun deh-TRWAH Rare

Usage Note

Détroit refers to a narrow stretch of water connecting two larger bodies, like the détroit de Gibraltar or the détroit de Bering. Note the silent final t. The word also gives its name to Detroit, Michigan, once a strategic crossing on the strait between Lakes Erie and St. Clair.

Examples

"Le détroit de Gibraltar sépare l'Europe de l'Afrique."

Natural Translation

The Strait of Gibraltar separates Europe from Africa.

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