# Firth

/ˈfɝθ/ (US) · /fˈɜːθ/ (UK) · CEFR C2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/firth
Updated: 2026-08-15

## Definition

a long, narrow area of sea that reaches far into the land, especially in Scotland. It is similar to a very wide river mouth where the water is salty.

For teachers: a long, narrow arm of the sea, often representing the estuary of a major river. Primarily used in Scottish geographical contexts.

## Examples

- The sun sets beautifully over the wide firth.
- The fishing boats returned to the safety of the firth as the storm clouds gathered over the open sea.
- The industrial landscape along the firth has transformed significantly over the last century, moving from heavy shipbuilding to protected wildlife conservation zones.

## Usage notes

- Commonly appears in Scottish place names, such as the Firth of Forth or the Firth of Clyde.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.