Pronunciation: [ˈe͡ət] (IPA) 
The spelling of the word "airt" is derived from the Old English word "aer" which means compass direction. The IPA phonetic transcription of the word is /ɛrt/. The "a" sound is pronounced as /ɛ/ and the "r" sound is pronounced as /r/. Even though the word is no longer commonly used in modern English, it can still be found in some Scottish dialects, where it is pronounced as /ɑrt/ or /art/.
Airt is a noun that refers to a compass point or a direction, especially in Scottish dialects. The word is primarily used in Scottish English and Scots language. It is derived from the Middle English word "airth," which ultimately traces its roots back to the Old Norse word "austar" meaning "east."
In common usage, airt denotes a specific direction on the compass. It is often used to describe the cardinal points, such as north, south, east, or west. However, in Scottish dialects, it can be employed to indicate more specific directions within each cardinal point. For example, airt can refer to north-northwest, or southeast within the east.
The term airt is also employed to describe the natural elements and features associated with these directions. It can encompass the winds, weather patterns, or landscapes that are traditionally associated with a specific airt. For instance, the cold winds blowing from the north can be referred to as airt. Similarly, a mountain range or a river that runs in an east-west direction may be said to lie across the airt.
Overall, airt serves as a versatile term that denotes both compass points and the natural characteristics associated with those directions. It is an integral part of Scottish language and Scottish English, providing a distinct regional flavor to communication and navigation.
The word airt is derived from the Old English word ært. This Old English term refers to a point of the compass, specifically the direction of the wind or the quarter from which the wind blows. Over time, the pronunciation and spelling of the word evolved, eventually becoming airt.
