Pronunciation: [ɡəzɪtˈi͡ə] (IPA) 
The word gazetteer is spelled with two 'z's and two 'e's, with a stress on the final syllable. This is due to its origin from the French word 'gazette', meaning news. The suffix '-eer' is added to form a noun indicating a person who makes or sells something. Thus, a gazetteer is someone who publishes a newspaper or a geographical dictionary. The IPA phonetic transcription for gazetteer is /ɡəˈzɛtɪər/.
A gazetteer is a reference book or a geographical dictionary that contains detailed and comprehensive information about places, locations, and geographical features. It is specifically designed to provide a wide array of facts and descriptions pertaining to cities, towns, villages, mountains, rivers, lakes, and any other significant landmarks found within a particular region or country. The purpose of a gazetteer is primarily to offer a wealth of knowledge and resources for researchers, geographers, travelers, and those interested in learning about specific locations.
Typically organized alphabetically, a gazetteer includes entries that provide valuable data such as the coordinates, population, elevation, political divisions, notable landmarks, historical background, climate, and economic activities of each place listed. Furthermore, it may contain maps and charts that enhance the explanations and make it easier to locate and visualize the various geographical features.
Due to its vast scope and detailed coverage, a gazetteer serves as an essential tool for numerous professionals involved in fields like cartography, urban planning, archaeology, history, and tourism. It acts as a valuable reference point for gathering information, conducting research, and exploring the historical, cultural, and physical aspects of a specific region or country. Whether utilized for academic purposes, travel planning, or general knowledge, a gazetteer serves as a reliable and comprehensive resource that enriches one's understanding of our diverse and dynamic world.
A book containing a brief description of the countries of the whole world, or of any one of them, whose information is arranged for reference in alphabetical order.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "gazetteer" dates back to the 17th century and is derived from the French word "gazette". The term "gazette" originally referred to a newspaper or official journal, particularly the "Gazette de France" which was first published in the early 17th century. It was a government publication in France that contained official news and announcements.
The word "gazette" itself has its roots in the Italian word "gazzetta" which was a Venetian coin used to purchase news sheets in the 16th century. The Italian term was derived from the medieval Latin word "gazeta", which was a small Venetian coin.
Over time, "gazette" came to refer not only to a newspaper but also to a geographical index or dictionary.
