Pronunciation: [jˈazuː] (IPA) 
The word "Yazoo" is spelled as /jəˈzu/ in IPA phonetic transcription. The first syllable is pronounced as "yuh" with a schwa sound in the middle. The second syllable is pronounced with a "z" sound and the final syllable has an "oo" sound as in "too". This word could refer to several things such as the Yazoo River in the United States or to the Yazoo Records label which was active in the mid-20th century.
Yazoo is a term that can be defined in multiple ways depending on the context. Primarily, it refers to a river in the southeastern United States, specifically the state of Mississippi. The Yazoo River is a tributary of the Mississippi River. It stretches approximately 188 miles (303 kilometers) and traverses the flatlands of the Yazoo Basin.
The term "Yazoo" can also refer to an American blues label, Yazoo Records, which was established in 1967. Specializing in reissuing vintage recordings, Yazoo Records played a significant role in the revival of traditional acoustic blues music, introducing many influential artists to new audiences.
Furthermore, "Yazoo" is also associated with a county in Mississippi called Yazoo County. Named after the river, it is situated in the Mississippi Delta region. Yazoo County is known for its historical significance, especially during the American Civil War, as it was a major site of battles and skirmishes.
Lastly, "Yazoo" is occasionally used colloquially to refer to a type of music known as Yazoo City music, which originated in Mississippi and flourished in the early 20th century. This genre encompasses a fusion of country, blues, and gospel music, reflecting the cultural diversity of the region.
Overall, "Yazoo" can denote either a river, a county, a record label, historical significance, or a music genre, depending on the specific context in which it is used.
The word "Yazoo" has a Native American origin, specifically from the Natchez people, who were a Native American tribe of the southeastern United States. "Yazoo" comes from the Natchez word "Yazhu", which is believed to mean "to grow pallid" or "growing pale". The Natchez used this word to refer to the river in Mississippi now known as the Yazoo River. Eventually, the name "Yazoo" was also used to designate a county and a city in Mississippi.
