The spelling of the word "Somal" can be a bit confusing. It is pronounced with three syllables, /soh-muhl/, with the stress on the first syllable. The "a" is pronounced like the "a" in "father." It refers to the Somali people, who primarily reside in Somalia, but also can be found in neighboring countries. Despite being a simple word, the spelling of "Somal" can be easily mistaken for "somal" or "somaal," which is why proper pronunciation is important.
The word "Somal" is derived from the Somali language, which is spoken by the Somali people primarily residing in the Horn of Africa, mainly in Somalia. The etymology of the word "Somal" is linked to the Somali people themselves.
The earliest known recorded mention of the term "Somali" dates back to ancient Egyptian sources from the 15th century BCE. The ancient Egyptians referred to the Somali people as "the land of Punt". Punt was a region known for its trade in valuable goods such as myrrh, incense, and exotic animals.
The name "Somali" itself comes from the Somali words "soo" and "maal", which mean "go" and "milk" respectively. Historically, the Somali people have been nomadic pastoralists, relying heavily on livestock and engaging in transhumance, moving their herds in search of grazing lands.