The spelling of VIAD is often confusing, but it can be explained using phonetic transcription. VIAD is pronounced /vaɪæd/, with the "v" sound being voiced and the "i" sound being pronounced as a long "i" sound, similar to "eye". The "a" sound is pronounced as a short "a" sound, similar to "cat". Lastly, the "d" sound is pronounced as a voiced dental stop. Viad is often used as an abbreviation for the word "viaduct", a type of bridge that spans across a valley or other obstacle.