How Do You Spell CIRQUE?

Pronunciation: [sˈɜːk] (IPA)

The word "cirque" (pronounced /sɪrk/) is derived from the French language and refers to a steep-sided and circular depression or valley in a mountainous region. The spelling of this word follows the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) system, where the sound /s/ is represented by the letter "s," the vowel sound /ɪ/ is represented by the letters "i" and "e," and the sound /k/ is represented by the letter "c" before the letter "i" or "e." The final letter "ue" is silent, making the final sound /rk/.

CIRQUE Meaning and Definition

  1. A cirque refers to a natural landform characterized by a circular basin-shaped depression that is deep and steep-sided, often situated in high mountainous regions. Also known as a corrie or a cwm, a cirque is typically formed by glacial erosion. It is created when a glacier carves into a mountainside, excavating a hollow vessel in the shape of an amphitheater or a steep-sided cup. The erosive power of the ice scours and plucks the bedrock, allowing for the formation of a circular depression.

    Cirques usually have a steep wall on one side and a more gentle slope on the other. They are often found in regions with heavy snowfall or persistent glaciers, as the accumulation and compaction of snow over time are crucial for their formation. The steep walls of a cirque may rise several hundred meters and often feature jagged rocky outcrops.

    These formations serve as repositories for glacial ice and snow, which can accumulate within the basin, sometimes forming a small glacial lake called a tarn. Cirques are typically located in clusters, forming a series of contiguous or interconnected depressions. They play a crucial role in the hydrological system of mountainous regions, acting as catchments for glacial meltwater and snowmelt.

    With their distinctive and striking appearance, cirques have captivated explorers, mountaineers, and scientists for centuries. They offer unique ecosystems and breathtaking scenery, attracting both researchers and adventure enthusiasts. The study of cirques provides valuable insight into the geological workings of glaciated landscapes and the impacts of climate change on these delicate formations.

Common Misspellings for CIRQUE

Etymology of CIRQUE

The word "cirque" comes from the Latin word "circus", which originally referred to a large, open-air venue used for public events and performances in ancient Rome. Over time, the term "cirque" evolved to specifically denote a circular or oval-shaped performance space, typically surrounded by tiers of seating. This transition from "circus" to "cirque" occurred through the influence of French, where "cirque" took on the meaning of a circular arena used for equestrian shows, acrobatic displays, and other forms of entertainment. Nowadays, "cirque" is often associated with the circus arts and is commonly used to describe the artistic, high-flying performances of modern circus troupes.

Similar spelling words for CIRQUE

Plural form of CIRQUE is CIRQUES

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