Puget

Part of speech: noun

Definitions

1. A large inlet located in the Pacific Northwest of the United States
2. an expansive waterway surrounded by picturesque landscapes and mountains
3. a notable geographical feature that serves as a vital hub for maritime activities and trade

Etymology: George Vancouver's expedition was charting the coast of present-day Washington State when his lieutenant, Peter Puget, took a small boat into the maze of channels south of the Strait of Juan de Fuca. Vancouver named the whole network of waters after him, and the name spread to the entire inlet system that stretches south from the Strait. Puget went on to a long Royal Navy career and rose to flag rank. The name outlived his career in the navy, and it now honors a junior officer whose survey work made the waters known to European mapmakers.