Pronunciation: [ˈɑːktɪk] (IPA) 
The word "arctic" is spelled with an "-ctic" ending, which can be confusing for some English learners. However, the spelling follows the basic rule that when the "c" comes after an "i," it makes a /k/ sound. So, the IPA phonetic transcription for "arctic" would be /ˈɑrktɪk/. This word refers to the cold, northern regions of the Earth surrounding the North Pole, where polar bears and other Arctic animals can be found.
Arctic, in terms of geography, refers to the northernmost region or the area around the North Pole. It is a vast ecosystem that is primarily characterized by its extreme cold temperatures, making it one of the coldest places on Earth. The Arctic is home to the Arctic Ocean, which is entirely or partially covered by ice throughout much of the year. The region spans across various countries, including parts of Alaska (USA), Canada, Greenland (Denmark), Russia, and several Nordic countries.
In terms of climate, the Arctic is considered a polar climate zone. It experiences long, frigid winters with limited daylight, and short, cool summers with extended periods of continuous daylight. The Arctic is also known for its unique wildlife and vegetation, adapted to survive in the harsh conditions. Polar bears, reindeer, arctic foxes, and walruses are just a few examples of the diverse fauna found in the region.
Furthermore, the Arctic plays a crucial role in regulating the Earth's climate. Its massive ice sheets reflect sunlight back into space, helping to cool the planet. The region is also home to extensive frozen tundra and permafrost, which keep vast amounts of carbon stored in soil and prevent it from being released into the atmosphere.
Overall, the Arctic represents a remarkable and fragile ecosystem, heavily influenced by the ongoing process of climate change, and warrants efficient conservation efforts to preserve its ecological balance and ensure the survival of its unique inhabitants.
Pertaining to the north; northern; arctic regions, the lands surrounding the north pole; arctic circle, an imaginary line passing round the north pole at a distance of 23 1/2° from it; arctic current, an ocean-current which originates in the N. Polar regions, and flows southwards to the equator; arctic sea, the sea lying around the N. pole.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
The word "arctic" is derived from the Greek word "arktos", which means "bear". This term was used to refer to the constellation Ursa Major, which contains the North Star. The Arctic region got its name because it is located near the North Star, which in turn gave rise to the term "Arctic" to describe the region around the North Pole.
