Pronunciation: [slˈe͡ɪ] (IPA) 
The word "sleigh" is spelled with the letters S-L-E-I-G-H. The first sound is /s/, followed by a "long A" sound, written as /eɪ/. The "gh" at the end of the word is silent, making the final sound /leɪ/. This word is commonly associated with the winter season and is used to describe a vehicle that is pulled by dogs or horses. Despite the unusual spelling, many English speakers are familiar with this word and its pronunciation.
A sleigh is a type of vehicle that is typically used as a mode of transportation in snowy or icy conditions. It is designed with runners on the bottom to glide smoothly over the snow, and is usually pulled by horses, though modern variations may be powered by other means such as dogs or motorized engines.
The construction of a traditional sleigh consists of a wooden frame that is curved and open at the front, resembling a elongated box with a semicircular shape. It is commonly equipped with a seat or seats for passengers to sit on, and may feature a handle or reins to control the horses or other pulling source. Sleighs often exhibit decorative elements carved into the woodwork or painted onto the exterior, adding an aesthetic touch to its design.
Historically, sleighs were primarily used for transportation in areas with heavy winter conditions, providing a reliable means of travel over snow-covered terrain. However, in modern times, sleighs are often used for recreational purposes, such as sleigh rides or as part of festive celebrations during the holiday season.
The word "sleigh" is derived from the Dutch word "slee," which refers to a platform or frame on which people or goods can be carried. It entered the English language in the early 18th century and has since become synonymous with winter travel and enjoyment.
• In N. Amer., a carriage or waggon on sliders for travelling over ice or frozen snow.
• To travel in a sleigh.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
* 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 "sleigh" has its origins in the Middle Dutch word "sleghen" or "slegen", which means "to strike" or "to beat", referring to the act of sledging or sliding on a smooth surface. This Middle Dutch word later became "sley" in English, and eventually evolved into "sleigh" as we know it today. The term initially referred to a large, horse-drawn vehicle used for transportation during winter.
