Pharaoh or Pharoah – Which is Correct?
When it comes to the spelling of the ancient Egyptian rulers, the choice between “pharaoh” and “pharoah” seems to have sparked some confusion. Let’s dive into this linguistic dilemma and find out which spelling is correct.
In contemporary English, the most widely accepted spelling is “pharaoh.” This follows the standardized use of the “ph” digraph to represent the sound /f/. This spelling aligns with the pronunciation of the word, as most English speakers would read “pharaoh” with an /f/ sound at the beginning.
Furthermore, the use of “ph” in “pharaoh” can be seen in various other English words derived from Greek, like “philosophy,” “photosynthesis,” and “philanthropy.” These words showcase how the digraph “ph” is commonly used to represent the /f/ sound. Therefore, “pharaoh” falls in line with this familiar and accepted pattern.
To further solidify our argument, we can also turn to historical evidence. Ancient Egyptian inscriptions, including the Rosetta Stone, do not contain any relevant hieroglyphs to confirm the preferred spelling. Since the ancient Egyptian rulers did not have a writing system for our modern roman alphabet, the English spelling of “pharaoh” is essentially a convention.
While “pharaoh” is the standard and commonly accepted spelling, one may encounter the variant “pharoah.” This alternate spelling, though less prevalent, does exist. It could be a result of historical transitions in the English language or a case of misinterpretation or misspelling.
However, it is worth mentioning that “pharoah” has far less usage in print and online sources compared to “pharaoh.” If we consult reputable dictionaries, style guides, and academic sources, “pharaoh” heavily outweighs “pharoah” in terms of usage.
Here is a list of some reputable sources that consistently use the spelling “pharaoh”:
1. Merriam-Webster Dictionary: The renowned American dictionary explicitly lists “pharaoh” as the only correct spelling.
2. Oxford English Dictionary (OED): The authoritative English language reference work also recognizes “pharaoh” as the correct way to spell the word.
3. Cambridge Dictionary: This widely-used English dictionary showcases “pharaoh” without any mention of an alternative spelling.
4. The British Museum: As a treasure trove of ancient artifacts, the British Museum uses “pharaoh” in its exhibition descriptions and educational materials.
By referring to these reliable sources, one can be assured that “pharaoh” is the preferred and correct spelling in contemporary English usage.
In conclusion, the correct spelling for the ancient Egyptian rulers is “pharaoh.” This spelling adheres to the standard use of the “ph” digraph to represent the /f/ sound found in many English words. Moreover, reputable dictionaries, museums, and educational institutions consistently endorse “pharaoh” as the widely accepted spelling. While “pharoah” may occasionally be encountered as a variant, it is considerably less common and not as widely recognized. So, if you’re ever in doubt, remember to stick with the “pharaoh” spelling to ensure accuracy and conformity with accepted conventions.