Pronunciation: [ɡɹˈaz] (IPA) 
The word "graz" is a German term that refers to a pasture or grassland. It is pronounced as [ɡʁaːt͡s] in IPA phonetic transcription. The "g" in "graz" has a hard sound, similar to the "g" in "goat" or "goal." The "r" in "graz" is pronounced with a distinctive rolling sound, represented by the IPA symbol [ʁ]. The "a" in "graz" is pronounced as a long vowel sound [aː]. The final "z" in "graz" is pronounced as a voiceless sibilant [s].
Graz is a noun that refers to a city located in southeastern Austria. It is the second-largest city in Austria and serves as the capital of the Styria region. Graz has a rich history dating back to Roman times, and throughout the centuries, it has evolved into a vibrant cultural, educational, and economic hub.
In terms of its physical layout, Graz is known for its picturesque old town, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The city is characterized by its unique blend of architectural styles, ranging from medieval to contemporary designs. Graz is also known as the "City of Design" due to its innovative approach to urban planning and the presence of various artistic and cultural institutions.
The city is home to several universities, making it a significant center for education and research. Graz is renowned for its contributions to science and technology, particularly in the field of engineering. Additionally, it hosts numerous international conferences and events, attracting experts from all over the world.
Furthermore, Graz is recognized for its culinary tradition, with a diverse range of restaurants offering both traditional Austrian cuisine and international dishes. The city's cultural scene is vibrant, with numerous theaters, music festivals, and art exhibitions taking place throughout the year.
Overall, Graz is a captivating city that seamlessly blends its rich history with modern advancements, offering visitors a unique blend of cultural experiences, architectural marvels, and educational opportunities.
The word "graz" has different etymological roots depending on its specific meaning and language. Here are the etymologies for two distinct uses of the word "graz":
1. City of Graz, Austria:
The city of Graz, located in Austria, gets its name from the Slavic settlement "Gradec" (pronounced grah-dehts) that existed on the same site during the Middle Ages. The Slavic word "gradec" means "small castle" or "fortified settlement". Over time, the name "Gradec" transformed into "Gratz" and eventually into its modern form "Graz".
2. Grazing (verb):
The verb "to graze" meaning "to feed on growing grass" comes from the Old English word "græsian".
