Definition

1. Proper noun:
   • A specific geographical strait: The "Strait of Calais" is the narrow sea passage connecting the English Channel to the North Sea. It is the narrowest part of the English Channel, representing the shortest distance between England and mainland Europe.

Usage

• The term "Strait of Calais" is used as a specific geographical name to refer to this body of water. It is often discussed in contexts of geography, history, European travel, and maritime navigation.

Examples

• Proper noun:
  • The Strait of Calais is approximately 33 kilometers wide at its narrowest point.
  • Ferries frequently cross the Strait of Calais, connecting England and France.
  • Many historical invasions and migrations have occurred across the Strait of Calais.

Advanced Usage

• "to cross the Strait of Calais": To travel by sea or air over this specific body of water.
  • We will cross the Strait of Calais by ferry next week.
• "the waters of the Strait of Calais": Referring to the maritime area of the strait.
  • The waters of the Strait of Calais are known for strong currents.

Variants and Related Words

• The Dover Strait: This is the more common contemporary name for the same geographical feature. "Strait of Calais" is a historical and alternative name.
• English Channel: The larger sea area to the west of which the Strait of Calais/Dover Strait is a part.
• Pas-de-Calais: The French administrative department (and its namesake strait) whose coastline borders this waterway. "Pas-de-Calais" is the French name for the Strait of Dover/Calais.

Synonyms

• The Dover Strait: The primary synonym in modern English usage.
• The Narrow Seas: A historical term sometimes used to refer to the English Channel and this strait.

Related Phrases

• Channel crossing: A general term for crossing the English Channel, which often involves traversing the Strait of Calais/Dover Strait.
  • The Channel crossing can be rough in bad weather.

Noun

1. the strait between the English Channel and the North Sea; shortest distance between England and the European continent