gulf
n. countable B1 Intermediate US //ˈɡəɫf// UK //ɡˈʌlf// gulf
n. a large area of the ocean that is almost completely surrounded by land. It is usually much bigger than a bay.
n. a deep inlet of the sea almost surrounded by land, with a narrow mouth. Often used figuratively to describe a wide gap or separation between two people or groups.
The ship sailed across the Gulf of Mexico.
The oil spill in the gulf caused significant damage to the local fishing industry and coastal wildlife.
Despite their shared history, a widening gulf of misunderstanding grew between the two political factions, making any future compromise seem increasingly unlikely.
Usage
When used as part of a proper name for a specific geographical feature, it is always capitalised.