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polynya

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noun po·lyn·ya \ ˌpä-lən-ˈyä \

Definition of polynya

plural polynyas also polynyi play \-ˈyē\
:an area of open water in sea ice

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Recent Examples of polynya from the Web

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'polynya.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Origin and Etymology of polynya

Russian polyn'ya

Learn More about polynya

  1. See words that rhyme with polynya Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about polynya

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a strongly worded attack

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