'Naval' relates to a navy or warships; 'navel' is the small depression at the centre of the abdomen.
Adjective. Relating to a navy or its warships and operations.
The naval base was home to three aircraft carriers.
He had a distinguished naval career spanning thirty years.
Naval power was crucial to controlling trade routes in the 18th century.
Noun. The small scar-like depression in the centre of the abdomen, formed where the umbilical cord was attached.
The doctor examined the navel for signs of infection.
Navel oranges are seedless and easy to peel.
The belly dancer's navel was adorned with a jewel.
Common mistake
Spelling error: "A navel officer" when talking about the military (correct: naval officer). Or confusing them when writing about fruit: "a naval orange" (correct: navel orange — named for its belly-button-like shape).
Trick to remember it
'Naval' has an A for 'armada' and 'anchor' — all things navy. 'Navel' ends in EL like 'belly' — the navel is in your belly.
Quick rule
Is it about the military navy or warships? 'Naval'. Is it the belly button or the seedless orange? 'Navel'.
Did you know?
Navel oranges are named for the belly-button-like protrusion at the base. This 'navel' is actually a secondary undeveloped fruit growing inside the primary one. The variety was developed in Brazil in the 19th century and introduced to California, where it became the most-consumed orange variety in the US.
Exercise 1 · Pick the right one
The country expanded its _____ fleet to protect its trading interests in the region.
Exercise 2 · Pick the right one
She bought a bag of _____ oranges because they are seedless and sweeter.
Exercise 3 · Form the word
Is it about the military navy or warships? 'Naval'. Is it the belly button or the seedless orange? 'Navel'.
Spelling error: "A navel officer" when talking about the military (correct: naval officer). Or confusing them when writing about fruit: "a naval orange" (correct: navel orange — named for its belly-button-like shape).
'Naval' has an A for 'armada' and 'anchor' — all things navy. 'Navel' ends in EL like 'belly' — the navel is in your belly.
Bryan López
Founder of SpeakUP Academy