The Panama Canal is a crucial waterway connecting the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. It is pronounced as [pænəmə kəˈnæl] in IPA phonetic transcription, where the stress is on the second syllable of "Panama" and the final syllable of "canal". The spelling of this word includes a doubled consonant "n" in "Panama" and the use of the letter "a" in both syllables, which corresponds with its Spanish pronunciation. Proper spelling of the Panama Canal is important for accurate communication and understanding of its significance in global trade.
The Panama Canal refers to a man-made waterway located in Panama, Central America, connecting the Atlantic Ocean to the Pacific Ocean. It is considered one of the most significant engineering achievements in history. The canal stretches approximately 50 miles from the Caribbean Sea in the north to the Pacific Ocean in the south and serves as a crucial maritime shortcut, offering a direct route through the isthmus of Panama.
The construction of the Panama Canal took place over a period of 10 years from 1904 to 1914, with the United States leading the effort. The canal features a series of locks that lift ships up to a height of 85 feet above sea level and then lower them back down to reach their destination. It enables ships of various sizes to transit through the canal, thereby saving time, money, and the need to sail around the entire South American continent.
The Panama Canal has had a significant impact on global trade and transportation, facilitating the movement of goods between the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. It serves as a vital link for international commerce, allowing for the passage of a wide range of vessels, including cargo ships, tankers, and cruise liners. The economic benefits of the canal are immense, providing a shorter and safer route for trade between nations. It also serves as a key source of revenue for Panama, as tolls are collected from the ships passing through the canal.
Overall, the Panama Canal has revolutionized the shipping industry by providing a crucial maritime shortcut and contributing to the growth and development of international trade.
The word "Panama" comes from the indigenous Kuna language, where "panamá" means "abundance of fish" or "place with many fish". The term "Canal" derives from the Latin word "canālis", meaning a channel or pipe. The etymology of the full term "Panama Canal" reflects the geographical location of the canal in Panama, connecting the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans.