isthmus
UK: ˈɪsθməs | US: ˈɪsθməs
n. a narrow strip of land connecting two larger landmasses, typically with water on either side
The word "isthmus" originates from the Greek isthmos, meaning "narrow passage" or "neck of land." It entered English via Latin in the 16th century, retaining its original geographical sense. The Greek root isthm- specifically referred to land bridges, reflecting the term's enduring precision in describing a critical geophysical feature. The suffix -us is a Latin nominal ending, standard in scientific and anatomical terminology.
The Isthmus of Panama connects North and South America.
Ancient Corinth flourished due to its strategic location on an isthmus.
Engineers proposed a canal to bypass the narrow isthmus.
The isthmus was vulnerable to naval blockades during wartime.
Over time, erosion may sever the isthmus, creating two islands.