fjord

noun

fē-ˈȯrd  ˈfē-ˌȯrd 

ˈfyȯrd

variants or less commonly fiord

: a narrow inlet of the sea between cliffs or steep slopes

the fjords of Norway

Illustration of fjord

Synonyms of fjord

• bay
• estuary
• loch
• cove

Examples of fjord in a Sentence

a cruise through the breathtaking fjords along the coast of Norway

Recent Examples on the Web

Options for activities include paddleboarding and chasing Arctic swells in the fjords, sailing through sea cliffs and the uninhabited Hornstrandir Nature Reserve, and spotting whales, seals, Arctic foxes, and more wildlife. — Nicole Hoey, Robb Report, 28 June 2026

Their journey spans icy fjords, Byzantine intrigue, and the fabled Silk Road, blending Viking grit with ancient Chinese wisdom, unexpected alliances, and a touch of magic. — Melanie Goodfellow, Deadline, 25 June 2026

In the village of Nes, the navigation guides travelers to remarkably preserved World War II heritage sites, including coastal bunkers overlooking the fjords. — Rebecca Ann Hughes, Forbes.com, 20 June 2026

For dinner, standouts included a superb chicken cordon bleu, polar fjord haddock with Parmesan polenta, and an always-available filet cooked to perfection. — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 16 June 2026

Word History

Etymology

Norwegian fjord, from Old Norse fjǫrthr — more at ford

First Known Use

1674, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for fjord

• board
• bored
• chord
• cord
• corde
• cored
• floored
• gored
• gourd
• hoard
• horde
• lord

Kids Definition

fjord

noun

variants also fiord

fē-ˈȯrd

: a narrow inlet of the sea between cliffs or steep slopes

Etymology

Norwegian