Pronunciation: [ʃˈantiː] (IPA) 
The word "Shantee" can be spelled phonetically as /ʃænˈti/. The first syllable is pronounced with the "sh" sound, a combination of "s" and "h", followed by the short "a" sound. The second syllable begins with the "t" sound, followed by a long "ee" sound. The final sound is pronounced with a short "i" sound. The spelling of the word reflects the five distinct sounds that make up its pronunciation.
The word "Shantee" is derived from the Hindi word "chhant" or "cháanṭ", which means a rapid, rhythmic vocal delivery often associated with Indian music. This term was gradually Anglicized to "shanty" or "shantee" as it entered the English language. "Shanties" originally referred to work songs sung by sailors during repetitive tasks on ships, such as hauling ropes or raising sails. Over time, the term was also used to describe folk songs sung by various groups, such as lumberjacks or railroad workers.
