Pronunciation: [fˈɒɹɪst] (IPA) 
The word "forest" is spelled as /ˈfɒrɪst/ in IPA phonetic transcription. The initial "f" sound is followed by the "or" sound which is pronounced as /ɒr/. Then, there is the "e" sound that is represented by the letter "e" itself. Lastly, there is the "st" sound which is represented by the letters "s" and "t". The word is commonly used to describe a large dense area of trees and other vegetation.
A forest is a vast expanse of land predominantly covered with dense trees and vegetation, typically forming a substantial ecological community. It is characterized by a high density and diversity of plant species, ranging from towering evergreen or deciduous trees to shrubs and underbrush. Forests can be found in various landscapes, such as mountains, plains, or coastal areas, and are crucial components of the Earth's ecosystems.
Forests play a vital role in sustaining life on the planet, as they contribute to climate regulation, oxygen production, water retention, and soil conservation. They serve as habitats for a wide array of wildlife species, including animals, birds, insects, and plants, fostering biodiversity and providing essential ecological functions.
Different types of forests exist, depending on the climatic conditions and the dominant tree species. These include tropical rainforests, temperate forests, boreal forests, and mangrove forests, among others. Each type has its specific characteristics and adaptations, creating unique ecosystems and supporting distinct communities of organisms.
Forests also offer numerous social, economic, and cultural benefits to humans. They provide renewable resources like timber, fuelwood, and non-timber forest products, which can be utilized for construction, energy, and various industries. Additionally, forests offer recreational opportunities, picturesque landscapes, and a source of inspiration, contributing to our overall well-being and quality of life.
However, the world's forests face numerous threats, such as deforestation, illegal logging, habitat destruction, urbanization, and climate change. Protecting and sustainably managing forests is crucial for their conservation and ensuring their continued provision of ecological services for future generations.
• A large tract of land covered with trees; an uncultivated tract of ground interspersed with wood for field-sporting.
• Sylvan; rustic.
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 "forest" comes from the Old French word "forest", which ultimately originates from the Latin word "foris", meaning "outdoors" or "outside". In Latin, "forestis" referred to an unenclosed space or hunting ground. Over time, the word was adopted into Old English as "forest" with a similar meaning.
