Ria

Ria is a term with several distinct uses in geography, onomastics, and toponymy. In geography, a ria is a coastal inlet formed when sea level rises and drowns a river valley. Rias are typically long and narrow with irregular coastlines and multiple branches or bays. They are common on Atlantic coasts where river valleys have been flooded, particularly in Iberia and parts of western Europe, and they differ from fjords, which are carved by glaciers, and from estuaries, which are mouths of rivers where water mixes with seawater. The physical shape and tidal dynamics of a ria often create diverse habitats and accommodate human settlements along their shores.

In onomastics, Ria is a feminine given name used in several languages. In Dutch, Portuguese, and Italian contexts, it frequently appears as a standalone name or as a diminutive form of Maria. The name is used internationally and its popularity varies by country and era.

As a toponym, Ria appears in numerous places around the world, reflecting local language and geographic features. The accented form Ría is common in Spanish-speaking regions to denote bays or estuaries, and several towns, districts, or geographic features bear the name Ria or Ría as part of their official designation.