Pronunciation: [sˈʌntanɪŋ] (IPA) 
The word "suntanning" is spelled with an "nt" in the middle instead of "nn" because of the way the word is pronounced. The IPA phonetic transcription of this word is /ˈsʌn.tæn.ɪŋ/. The "t" sound is pronounced more strongly, resulting in a break between the two syllables. If the word were spelled with two "n's" (e.g. "sunning"), it would suggest a smoother pronunciation without the same emphasis on the "t" sound in the middle.
Suntanning refers to the act of exposing one's skin to the sun's rays for the purpose of achieving a darker complexion or a desired level of tan. It involves intentionally staying under the sun to allow ultraviolet (UV) radiation to penetrate the skin, triggering the production of melanin, a pigment responsible for darkening the skin. This practice is popular among individuals who seek to achieve a sun-kissed glow or to enhance their appearance for aesthetic reasons.
Suntanning can be done in various settings, including beaches, swimming pools, or even in the backyard. Many people choose to lie down or recline in order to maximize the exposure of their skin to the sun's rays. It is important to note that prolonged exposure to the sun carries certain risks, primarily due to the harmful UV radiation emitted by the sun. These risks include sunburn, premature aging of the skin, and an increased chance of developing skin cancer.
To mitigate these risks, it is recommended to use appropriate sun protection measures, such as applying sunscreen with a sufficient sun protection factor (SPF), wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak hours of sun intensity. Additionally, it is crucial to exercise moderation when engaging in suntanning and to be aware of one's individual skin type and sensitivity to sunlight.
The word "suntanning" is a compound word that combines "sun" and "tanning". The etymology of "sun" can be traced back to the Old English word "sunne" and the Proto-Germanic word "sunnon". Both of these words were derived from the Proto-Indo-European root *sóh₂wṓs, meaning "sun". Similarly, the word "tanning" is derived from the verb "tan", which comes from the Old English word "tannian", meaning "to convert hide into leather". The origin of "tannian" is uncertain, but it is believed to have Indo-European roots. Therefore, the overall etymology of "suntanning" can be understood as the combination of the words "sun" and "tanning", referring to the process of achieving a tanned complexion through exposure to sunlight.
