Pronunciation: [kˈiːz] (IPA) 
The word "quays" refers to a structure made of stone or concrete that runs along the edge of a body of water, used for loading and unloading ships. Its pronunciation is /kiːz/ (keyz), with the "qu" sound (/kw/) being pronounced as "k" followed by a long "e" sound (/iː/) and a final "z" sound (/z/). The word is commonly used in British English and is derived from the Old French word "quai" which means "wharf" or "landing place".
Quays refer to structures or platforms commonly found along the edge of a body of water, such as a river, lake, or harbor, designed for docking, loading, and unloading of boats and ships. These structures usually consist of a solid surface made of concrete, stone, or wood, which extends out over the water, parallel to the shore. Quays provide a stable platform where vessels can moor or tie up, facilitating the transfer of goods, passengers, and cargo between watercraft and the land.
Typically, quays are equipped with various amenities and facilities to support the loading and unloading processes. This may include cranes, hoists, ramps, and storage areas, specifically designed to accommodate different types of cargo or goods. They also often have spaces for passengers to embark or disembark, and sometimes include waiting areas or terminals.
Quays play a critical role in the logistics and transportation industry, serving as key transportation hubs for trade, shipping, and other water-based activities. They are commonly found in busy ports, coastal cities, and major waterways, where they act as vital connections between land and sea. Quays help streamline the movement of goods and people, contributing to efficient maritime operations and economic development in these regions.
The word "quays" is derived from the Middle English word "key", which originated from the Old Norman French word "kai" or "kée". This Old Norman French word traces back to the Latin word "cāius", meaning "a quay" or "a landing place". The term "quay" was commonly used in Middle English to refer to a stone or wooden platform built along the edge of a body of water, typically a harbor or river, for the loading and unloading of ships and boats. Over time, the word "key" transformed into the modern English word "quay" with its current spelling and pronunciation.
