The term "northwest passage" refers to a sea route that connects the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans through the Canadian Arctic Archipelago. The term is derived from the explorers who sought the passage in centuries past. There are various synonyms for this term, including Arctic route, northern sea route, and polar route, among others. These synonyms signify the difficult journey through the treacherous Arctic waters, which requires navigation through ice floes and dangerous weather conditions. The search for a navigable Northwest Passage has been ongoing for centuries, with numerous explorers attempting to find this elusive sea route. Today, the route is primarily used by icebreakers and other specialized ships, making it a crucial shipping artery for trade between Asia and Europe.