ø

Definition

The Danish word for island, written ø. It stands alone on maps and ends many island names, such as Fanø, Samsø and Rømø. Statistics Denmark's yearbook Denmark in Figures 2012 lists 73 inhabited islands, so the letter matters on almost any Danish map. A name ending in -ø is a strong hint that you will need a bridge, a causeway or a ferry to get there, and that the island may have its own timetable and weather. See also: øer, færge, bro, and the guide A Guide to the Danish Islands.