khalej

Khalej, also spelled khaleej or khalij, is a term of Arabic origin that translates to "gulf" or "bay." It is most commonly used in geographical contexts to refer to bodies of water along coastlines. The most prominent usage of the term is in the Persian Gulf, which is officially known as the Arabian Gulf in many Arabic-speaking countries. This body of water lies between the Arabian Peninsula and Iran and is a significant region for oil production and international trade.

Beyond this major geographical feature, the term khalej can be applied to smaller gulfs, bays, or inlets in various Arabic-speaking regions. The specific designation often depends on local naming conventions and historical usage. The term signifies a coastal indentation where the sea penetrates the land. Its usage is straightforward and directly descriptive of the geographical feature it represents.