The correct spelling of the English region known as the East Midlands is /iːst ˈmɪdləndz/. The word "east" has the long vowel sound /iː/, while "Midlands" is pronounced with a short vowel sound /ɪ/. The use of the letter "s" instead of "z" in "Midlands" is due to British English spelling conventions. The East Midlands is known for its historic sites, beautiful countryside, and bustling cities such as Nottingham and Leicester.
The East Midlands is a region in the central part of England, encompassing a collection of counties and districts. Geographically, it is situated in the eastern portion of the Midlands, flanked by the regions of Yorkshire to the north, the West Midlands to the west, the East of England to the east, and the South East to the southeast. The primary counties within the East Midlands are Derbyshire, Leicestershire, Lincolnshire, Northamptonshire, Nottinghamshire, and Rutland.
The region boasts a mixture of rural and urban areas, with notable cities including Leicester, Nottingham, Derby, and Lincoln. Historically significant, the East Midlands is renowned for its rich heritage, with landmarks such as Lincoln Cathedral, Nottingham Castle, and Chatsworth House attracting visitors from far and wide.
Economically, the East Midlands has a diversified industry base, spanning sectors such as manufacturing, engineering, agriculture, and services. It is often referred to as the "workshop of England" due to its history of manufacturing and industrial prowess. The region also benefits from excellent transportation links, with major roads and railways connecting it to other parts of the country.
Culturally, the East Midlands is known for its warm hospitality, distinct dialects, traditional folk music, and vibrant festivals. Notably, the region is home to the annual Goose Fair in Nottingham, renowned for its thrilling rides, street food, and lively atmosphere.
In summary, the East Midlands is a diverse and dynamic region that combines a mix of cities, countryside, history, and industry, making it an attractive destination for both residents and visitors.
The word "East Midlands" is a combination of the words "East" and "Midlands". Here is the etymology of each of these terms:
- East: The word "east" originated from the Old English word "ēast", which means "rising" or "toward the dawn". It also has Germanic roots and is related to the Proto-Indo-European word "aus", meaning "to shine" or "dawn".
- Midlands: The word "Midlands" refers to the central part of England. Its etymology is straightforward, as it is a combination of "mid" meaning "middle" or "between" and "lands" referring to the territory or region in question.
So the etymology of "East Midlands" essentially signifies the region in the middle (midlands) of England, towards the east.