noun
gulf
guhlf
noun
1
A large area of sea partly enclosed by land.
"The Gulf of Mexico borders several US states."
2
A wide gap or significant difference between two things, especially people or groups.
"A wide gulf separates the two candidates' views on the economy."
"There is a growing gulf between rich and poor in the region."
3
A deep hollow or chasm in the ground.
"The hikers peered nervously into the gulf below the ridge."
How to Use Gulf
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA large inlet of the sea, or figuratively a big gap or difference between two things.
Common pairings
gulf between
gulf of understanding
bridge the gulf
Word Forms
gulfed past tense, gulfs plural, gulfs singular
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The _____ of Mexico borders several US states.
Etymology
From Old French golf, from Italian golfo, ultimately from Ancient Greek kolpos ("bosom, gulf").