arctic
The Arctic refers to the polar region located at the northernmost part of Earth, characterized by extreme cold, seasonal ice cover, and unique ecosystems. It encompasses the Arctic Ocean and surrounding land masses, often defined as the area within the Arctic Circle.
Examples
3 of 5I watched a fascinating documentary about the indigenous cultures living in the Arctic.
I watched a fascinating documentary about the indigenous cultures living in the Arctic.
The geopolitical significance of the Arctic has increased due to the opening of new maritime trade routes.
The geopolitical significance of the Arctic has increased due to the opening of new maritime trade routes.
It's so freezing in this office, it feels like we're working in the Arctic!
It's so freezing in this office, it feels like we're working in the Arctic!
Word Family
Memory Tip
The word 'Arctic' comes from the Greek 'arktikos', meaning 'near the Bear'. Think of the Great Bear (Ursa Major) constellation, which is only visible in the Northern Hemisphere.
Quick Quiz
Scientists are concerned that the melting of the ___ ice cap will lead to rising sea levels.
Correct!
The correct answer is: Arctic
Examples
I watched a fascinating documentary about the indigenous cultures living in the Arctic.
everydayI watched a fascinating documentary about the indigenous cultures living in the Arctic.
The geopolitical significance of the Arctic has increased due to the opening of new maritime trade routes.
formalThe geopolitical significance of the Arctic has increased due to the opening of new maritime trade routes.
It's so freezing in this office, it feels like we're working in the Arctic!
informalIt's so freezing in this office, it feels like we're working in the Arctic!
The rate of permafrost degradation in the Arctic is a critical indicator of global climate shift.
academicThe rate of permafrost degradation in the Arctic is a critical indicator of global climate shift.
Our logistics team is evaluating the viability of shipping goods through the Arctic during the summer months.
businessOur logistics team is evaluating the viability of shipping goods through the Arctic during the summer months.
Word Family
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
Arctic blast
A sudden cold front bringing very cold air from the north.
Arctic fox
A small fox native to the Arctic regions.
the High Arctic
The most northerly part of the Arctic region.
Often Confused With
The Arctic is the northern polar region (mostly ocean), while the Antarctic is the southern polar region (a continent covered in ice).
The tundra is a specific treeless biome characterized by frozen subsoil, whereas the Arctic is the entire geographic region.
Usage Notes
When referring to the geographic region, 'Arctic' should be capitalized and preceded by 'the'. When used as an adjective to mean 'extremely cold' in a general sense, it is often lowercase.
Common Mistakes
Learners often forget to use the definite article 'the' when referring to the region. They also frequently confuse it with 'Antarctic' because of the similar spelling.
Memory Tip
The word 'Arctic' comes from the Greek 'arktikos', meaning 'near the Bear'. Think of the Great Bear (Ursa Major) constellation, which is only visible in the Northern Hemisphere.
Word Origin
From the Greek 'arktikos', meaning 'of the bear', referring to the Ursa Major constellation that points toward the North Star.
Grammar Patterns
Cultural Context
The Arctic is home to various indigenous groups, such as the Inuit, and is currently a central focus of international climate change activism and scientific research.
Quick Quiz
Scientists are concerned that the melting of the ___ ice cap will lead to rising sea levels.
Correct!
The correct answer is: Arctic
Related Vocabulary
Related Words
ready
A2To be fully prepared for an action or an event. It describes a state where everything is set so that something can happen immediately without delay.
simple
A2Something that is easy to understand, do, or use because it is not complicated. It can also describe something that is plain and basic in style, without extra decoration.
physical
A2Relating to the body rather than the mind or feelings. It also describes things that exist in the real world and can be seen or touched.
general
A2Describing something that affects most people or things rather than being specific to one. It is also used to describe a broad understanding of a topic without focusing on small details.
environmental
A2Relating to the natural world of land, sea, air, plants, and animals. It is often used to describe things that involve protecting nature from damage caused by humans.
medical
A2Relating to the science of medicine and the treatment of injuries or diseases. It is used to describe things connected to doctors, nurses, and the healthcare system.
traditional
A2Following or belonging to the customs and beliefs that have been part of a group of people or a society for a long time. It describes practices that are done in the same way they have been done in the past rather than using new or modern methods.
private
A2Describes something that belongs to a specific person or group and is not for public use. It also refers to a place or conversation where others are not allowed to listen or watch.
difficult
A2Something that is hard to do, understand, or deal with because it requires a lot of effort or skill. It can also describe a person who is not easy to please or work with.
religious
A2Describes someone who has a strong belief in a god or a group of gods and follows the practices of a religion. It can also refer to things that are connected with or related to a particular religion.
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