SportsJuly 17, 2026

tundra

/ˈtʌn.drə/

Definition

A vast, treeless Arctic region where the subsoil is permanently frozen, necessitating specialized survival skills.

Etymology

The word is derived from the Kildin Sami word 'tūndâr', meaning 'uplands' or 'treeless mountain tract.' It entered English via Russian to describe the distinct ecological landscapes of the far north.

In the news

The article uses the term to describe the harsh, frozen environment where Alaska Native games were originally developed to hone the physical endurance and agility needed for daily survival.

Knuckle hop and two-foot high kick: the Olympics for Alaska Natives breathe new life into ancient games

Read the full article ↗

The Guardian

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