Pronunciation: [ˈazəɹˌi] (IPA) 
The correct spelling of the term for the people and language of Azerbaijan is "Azeri" (æˈzɛri). The IPA phonetic transcription for "Azeri" uses the symbol "æ" to represent the "a" sound in "cat," and "ɛ" to represent the "e" sound in "bet." The "z" is pronounced as in the word "zebra," and the "r" is pronounced with a slight rolling or trilling of the tongue. The "i" at the end is pronounced as the "ee" sound in "see."
Azeri is a term used to refer to the people, language, and culture associated with Azerbaijan, a country located in the South Caucasus region of Eurasia. The term specifically denotes the ethnic group native to this region, who primarily inhabit Azerbaijan and are related to the broader Turkic peoples.
In terms of the Azeri language, it belongs to the Turkic language family, which also includes Turkish, Uzbek, and Kazakh. Azeri is the official language of Azerbaijan and is spoken by the majority of the population. It has several dialects, with the most prominent being the Northern Azeri dialect, spoken in the capital city of Baku and the surrounding areas.
The Azeri culture is rich and diverse, encompassing traditions, customs, music, dance, and cuisine. Azeri cuisine is particularly notable for its use of savory ingredients like lamb, beef, rice, and a variety of spices. The historical and cultural heritage of the Azeri people is showcased in their literature, art, and architecture, with prominent examples being the Maiden Tower and the Palace of the Shirvanshahs in Baku.
The Azeri people have a long history, dating back to ancient times. Over the centuries, they have been influenced by various civilizations, including Persians, Arabs, Mongols, and Russians, which has shaped their distinctive identity. Today, Azeri culture continues to evolve, blending traditional and modern elements, and contributing to the diverse tapestry of international cultures.
The word "Azeri" is derived from the Persian term "āzerbayjān", which refers to the historical region of Azerbaijan. "Āzer" means "fire" or "ignite", and "bayjān" translates to "place" or "land". Therefore, "Azerbayjān" can be translated as "Land of Fire" or "Land of the Fire Keepers". The Persian term was later anglicized to "Azerbaijan", which became the modern name for the country located in the South Caucasus region. Consequently, the term "Azeri" refers to someone or something connected to Azerbaijan.
