How to Pronounce Mariupol

Meaning and Context

Mariupol is a historically significant port city in southeastern Ukraine, strategically located on the northern coast of the Sea of Azov near the mouth of the Kalmius River. Founded in 1778, it evolved into a major industrial and metallurgical center, home to the colossal Azovstal and Ilyich Steel and Iron Works plants, which were pivotal to Ukraine's economy. As a key maritime gateway, the Port of Mariupol facilitated substantial exports of steel, grain, and heavy machinery. The city's cultural identity is deeply rooted in its Greek heritage and its status as a hub for ethnic Greeks in Ukraine. Tragically, Mariupol gained global prominence during the Russo-Ukrainian War for its heroic and protracted defense in the 2022 Battle of Mariupol, a siege that resulted in catastrophic destruction and a severe humanitarian crisis, fundamentally altering its demographic and physical landscape.

Common Mistakes and Alternative Spellings

The standard and correct spelling is Mariupol, based on the Ukrainian language. A common historical alternative is Mariupol', which includes a soft sign from the Russian transliteration (Мариуполь). This variant is often seen in older English texts. Frequent misspellings and typos arise from phonetic misinterpretations or autocorrect errors, such as "Mariopol," "Mariopil," "Maryupol," or "Maryopol." Another point of confusion is the city's historical name from 1948 to 1989, Zhdanov, in honor of Soviet official Andrei Zhdanov. When referencing different eras, it is crucial to use the appropriate historical name to maintain accuracy. In all contemporary contexts concerning its modern history and the events of the 21st century, "Mariupol" is the exclusively correct spelling.

Example Sentences

The strategic importance of Mariupol was underscored by its status as a vital industrial and port city for Ukrainian exports on the Sea of Azov.

Prior to the 2022 invasion, visitors could explore the city's distinct heritage at the Mariupol Local History Museum.

The defense of the Azovstal steel plant became a defining symbol of Ukrainian resistance during a prolonged siege.

Reconstruction efforts in Mariupol face immense challenges due to the scale of the devastation inflicted upon its infrastructure.

Historically, the city's economy was driven by its massive metallurgical plants and bustling seaport.

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