inlet
UK: ˈɪn.lɛt | US: ˈɪn.lɛt
n. a small arm of the sea, a lake, or a river
n. an opening or passage for entry, especially in machinery
The word "inlet" originates from Middle English, combining "in" (meaning "into") and "let" (meaning "allow" or "permit"). Historically, "let" in Old English ("lǣtan") meant "to allow" or "to leave," which evolved into the sense of an opening or passage. Over time, "inlet" came to specifically describe a narrow body of water leading inland or an entry point in mechanical contexts. The logic reflects the idea of "allowing entry" (in + let).
The boat sailed through a narrow inlet into the calm bay.
The engineer inspected the fuel inlet of the engine.
Coastal towns often develop around natural inlets.
A clogged inlet can cause machinery to malfunction.
The map highlighted several inlets along the shoreline.