Pronunciation: [kˈe͡ɪə͡ʊ] (IPA) 
The word "Cayo" is spelled with a "y" instead of the more common "c" because it is a Spanish word. In Spanish, the letter "c" before an "e" or "i" is pronounced with a "th" sound, like in "centro." However, when a "y" is in place of the "c," it is pronounced as the English letter "y." In IPA phonetic transcription, "kayo" would be represented as /kaɪo/, with the stressed syllable being the first one.
Cayo is a noun that refers to a small, low-lying island, often found in the Caribbean Sea or other coastal areas. The word is derived from the Spanish language, in which it means "key" or "low island".
Cayos are typically formed by the accumulation of coral reefs, sand, or other organic materials over time. These islands are typically small in size, ranging from a few meters to a few kilometers in diameter. They are often characterized by their flat and sandy terrain, with dense vegetation such as palm trees and mangroves.
Cayos are commonly found in tropical regions, particularly in areas with warm waters and suitable conditions for coral growth. Many cayos are located in the Caribbean Sea, such as the famous Cayo Coco and Cayo Largo in Cuba or Cayo Levantado in the Dominican Republic.
These islands often attract tourists for their picturesque landscapes, pristine beaches, and diverse marine life. They are popular destinations for activities such as snorkeling, scuba diving, and beach relaxation. Cayos can also be home to various species of birds, reptiles, and other wildlife.
In summary, cayo refers to a small and low-lying island, typically formed by the accumulation of coral reefs or other organic materials. These islands are found in tropical regions, particularly in the Caribbean Sea, and are known for their picturesque landscapes, sandy beaches, and rich marine life.
The word "cayo" has two different origins and meanings depending on its context.
1. In Spanish, "cayo" refers to a small, low-elevation, sandy island in a tropical region. The term comes from the Taíno language, which was spoken by the native people of the Caribbean islands prior to the arrival of the Spanish. In Taíno, the word "cayo" meant "small island". The Spanish adapted the term and began using it to describe similar geographical features in the Caribbean and other tropical regions.
2. In Spanish-speaking countries, "cayo" can also be a form of the verb "caer", which means "to fall". In this context, "cayo" is the past tense of "caer", used to describe something that fell or dropped. This usage has a different etymology, originating from the Latin word "cadere", which also means "to fall".
