Pronunciation: [mˈɛkɒŋ] (IPA) 
The word "Mekong" is a river in Southeast Asia, which runs through six countries. In IPA phonetic transcription, "Mekong" is spelled as /məˈkɔːŋ/. The "m" sounds like the "m" in "map," and the first "e" is pronounced with a short "uh" sound. The "k" is pronounced with a hard "k" sound, and the second "o" has a long "oh" sound. Finally, the "ng" is pronounced as a single sound, like the "ng" in "singer."
The Mekong is a noun that refers to a major river in Southeast Asia. Originating from the Tibetan Plateau in China, it flows through several countries, including Myanmar, Laos, Thailand, Cambodia, and ultimately empties into the South China Sea in Vietnam. The Mekong holds significant importance in the region, both culturally and economically.
Stretching approximately 4,350 kilometers, the Mekong is one of the longest rivers in Asia. It is characterized by its distinct hydrological features, diverse ecosystems, and remarkable biodiversity. Along its course, the river serves as a lifeline for millions of people, providing a source of irrigation for agriculture, transportation, and a vital supply of freshwater.
The Mekong basin supports a rich array of flora and fauna, including numerous endangered species. This ecosystem is a critical part of the region's environmental heritage, fostering a delicate balance between human activities and the natural environment. The river also acts as a boundary, forming natural borders between countries, shaping cultural identities, and facilitating trade and regional integration.
Moreover, the Mekong has become a popular tourist destination due to its picturesque landscapes, iconic waterfalls, and opportunities for river cruises and recreational activities. It attracts travelers from around the world who are eager to explore its scenic beauty and experience the diversity of local cultures along its banks.
In conclusion, the Mekong is a prominent river in Southeast Asia, which holds great ecological, cultural, and economic significance for the countries it traverses.
* 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 "Mekong" is derived from several indigenous languages in Southeast Asia. Its etymology can be traced back to the Khmer word "Mae Nam Khong", meaning "Mother Water" or "Mother River". This term refers to the importance and significance of the Mekong River in the region. The name has variations in different languages, such as "Mae Kong" in Lao and "Mae Nam Khong" in Thai. Over time, the name "Mekong" has been adopted internationally as the standard term for the river.
