Sjøar

Sjøar is a term used in Norway to refer to a body of saltwater. This can encompass a range of geographical features, from large bays and fjords to smaller inlets and sounds. The word "sjø" itself translates to "sea" or "lake," and the plural form "sjøar" signifies multiple such bodies.

Norwegian geography is characterized by its extensive coastline and numerous fjords, which are deep, narrow, and elongated sea inlets with steep sides. These sjøar are integral to the country's landscape, culture, and economy. They provide vital habitats for marine life, serve as important transportation routes, and have historically supported fishing and maritime industries.

The specific definition of a sjø can vary depending on context, but generally, it denotes a connection to the larger ocean. Unlike freshwater lakes, sjøar are influenced by tides and salinity. Their morphology is often a result of glacial erosion, a process that has shaped much of Norway's dramatic coastal scenery. The term is commonly used in place names throughout Norway, indicating the presence and significance of these saltwater features in the nation's identity.