How Do You Spell BLOWHOLE?

Pronunciation: [blˈə͡ʊhə͡ʊl] (IPA)

Blowhole is a word spelled phonemically, meaning each letter typically represents one sound in the word. It is pronounced as /ˈbloʊ.hoʊl/. The "bl" sound is followed by the "ow" sound, which represents the diphthong /oʊ/, which is a combination of the sounds /o/ and /ʊ/. The "h" is silent, and the second syllable consists of the vowel sound /oʊ/ followed by the consonant /l/. The spelling of the word accurately represents its pronunciation, an important aspect of effective communication.

BLOWHOLE Meaning and Definition

1. A Blowhole can refer to two distinct definitions depending on the context in which it is used.

   When referring to marine mammals, particularly cetaceans such as whales or dolphins, a blowhole is a specialized opening on the top of their heads used for breathing. These unique structures act as the equivalent of a mammal's nose, allowing them to inhale and exhale the air they require to survive while submerged underwater. Blowholes are designed to close when the animal is submerged, preventing water from entering their respiratory system and ensuring efficient respiration upon surfacing. The size and shape of a blowhole can vary depending on the species, with some having a single blowhole opening while others have two.

   In a geological context, a blowhole is a natural cavity or opening found in coastal rock formations that connects to an underground cave or tunnel. These formations are typically formed by the eroding action of waves, resulting in a vertical tunnel-like structure. Blowholes often have an opening at both ends, enabling the seawater to surge into the cavity and create a spectacle when the high-pressure water is forced upward and ejected through the top opening, resembling a geyser. These geological phenomena are frequently visited by tourists due to their impressive and captivating displays of splashing water.

Common Misspellings for BLOWHOLE

• blochoff
• vlowhole
• nlowhole
• lowhole
• blohwole
• blowwhole
• slowhond
• blachole
• Blowholl

Etymology of BLOWHOLE

The word "blowhole" has two main etymological origins, depending on its use and context.

1. For the anatomical feature:

The etymology of "blowhole" in reference to the anatomical feature found in certain marine mammals, such as whales and dolphins, can be traced back to Old English. The word "blow" originally meant "to breathe, exhale forcefully", and "hole" referred to an opening or cavity. The combination of these two words created "blowhole", which specifically describes the nostril-like opening through which these animals release air when they surface. This usage dates back to the Middle English period in the 14th century.

2. For the geological feature:

In the context of a geological feature, such as a fissure or opening in the rocky surface, the word's etymology follows a slightly different path.

Plural form of BLOWHOLE is BLOWHOLES