Which geographical feature is defined as a body of water surrounded on most sides by land?

A body of water that is surrounded on most sides by land is known as a bay. Bays typically have a wide opening to the ocean or a larger body of water, allowing for water circulation while providing protection from the full force of wind, waves, and currents. This makes them valuable for harboring ships and supporting various aquatic ecosystems.

In contrast, a strait refers to a narrow channel of water that connects two larger bodies of water, while a gulf is a large inlet of the sea partially enclosed by land, but usually larger and deeper than a bay. A peninsula, on the other hand, is a landform surrounded by water on three sides but does not describe the body of water itself. Understanding these definitions helps clarify the distinct characteristics of these geographical features.