How Do You Spell GEGHARKUNIK?

Pronunciation: [d͡ʒˈɛɡhɑːkjˌuːnɪk] (IPA)

Gegharkunik is a word with a rather unique spelling. It is pronounced "gegh-ahr-koo-nik" and is the name of a region in Armenia. The beginning "gegh" sounds like the word "beg," followed by "ahr" which sounds similar to "are." The next syllable, "koo" has a long vowel sound, similar to "two," and the final "nik" is pronounced like "nick." The IPA phonetic transcription for this word is /ɡɛɣɑɹˈkunɪk/. Despite its unconventional spelling, the pronunciation is fairly straightforward once the IPA symbols are understood.

GEGHARKUNIK Meaning and Definition

1. Gegharkunik is the name of a region in Armenia located in the eastern part of the country. It is also the name of the largest and one of the most ancient lakes in the Caucasus region, known as Lake Sevan.

   As a region, Gegharkunik is bordered by Tavush and Kotayk regions to the west, Armenia's capital city Yerevan and Ararat region to the southwest, and Syunik region to the southeast. The region is characterized by its diverse terrain, which includes mountains, valleys, and forests. It is known for its rich natural resources and landscapes, attracting numerous tourists and nature enthusiasts. The region is also home to various historical and cultural sites, including Gegharkunik's administrative center, Gavar, and the ancient monastic complex of Noratus, which features unique and well-preserved khachkars (cross-stones).

   Lake Sevan, also referred to as Gegharkunik Lake, is the region's most prominent feature. It is one of the largest alpine lakes in the world, situated at an elevation of approximately 1,900 meters above sea level. The lake is known for its stunning turquoise-blue color and its surrounding resorts and beaches that attract locals and tourists throughout the year. Lake Sevan also plays a significant role in Armenia's economy, providing a freshwater source for irrigation, hydroelectric power generation, and fishing activities.

   In summary, Gegharkunik refers to both a region in Armenia and the renowned Lake Sevan. It encompasses a diverse natural landscape and is associated with historical, cultural, and economic importance within the country.

Etymology of GEGHARKUNIK

The term "Gegharkunik" is derived from the combination of two words: "geghar" and "kunik".

The word "geghar" is believed to originate from the Old Armenian "gegharish" or "gegharouyn", which means "reedy" or "marshy". It refers to the geographical features of the Gegharkunik region in Armenia, known for its numerous lakes, wetlands, and marshy areas.

The word "kunik" means "land" or "territory" in Armenian. Therefore, "Gegharkunik" can be translated as "the land of reeds" or "the territory of marshes", reflecting its natural characteristic.

It is important to note that Gegharkunik is also the name of a province in Armenia situated in the eastern part of the country, which incorporates the historic Gegharkunik region.