A gulf refers to a large portion of the ocean or sea that juts into the landmass, forming a significant indentation on the coastline. This geographical feature is often characterized by its expansive size, ergonomic shape, and strategic location, making it distinctive from bays and harbours. A prominent example of a gulf is the Gulf of Mexico, a vast body of water sandwiched between the southeastern United States and Mexico, supplemented by elements of the Caribbean Sea. Gulfs are important in various aspects, including maritime trading routes, fishing, oil exploration, and maintaining diverse marine ecosystems.

1. Gulf of Alaska 2. Persian Gulf 3. Gulf of Saint Lawrence 4. Gulf of California 5. Gulf of Oman

The Gulf of Mexico, commonly referred to as the 'Mexican Gulf', is a notable example of a sizable portion of the ocean that penetrates the land. It is actually the largest gulf in the world, stretching approximately 1,550 kilometers from east to west. Its surface area is roughly 1.6 million square kilometers, which is about half the size of the entire United States! The Gulf of Mexico is known for its rich biodiversity, housing thousands of marine species, including 49 species of sharks. It is also economically significant, as it is the hub for much of the United States' oil production. Despite being categorically smaller than the world's five oceans, the Gulf of Mexico holds its own when it comes to geographical, ecological, and economic importance.