a strong and rich sea-port town of Germany, in Hither Pomerania, and was formerly an important trading-place. In 1678 it was forced to surrender to the elector of Brandenburg, after 1800 houses had been burnt to ashes in one night's time. After this the Swedes defended it to the last extremity; and Charles XII. in 1714, came hither after its return out of Turkey. But the crown of Sweden not being able to hold out against five great powers, it was forced to submit in 1715. In 1720 it was rendered back to Sweden, but in a very poor condition. It is almost surrounded by the sea and the lake Francen, and has a harbour separated from the island of Rugen by a narrow strait. It is 15 miles north-west of Grippswald, and 40 north-east of Gustrow. E. Long. 13° 28'. N. Lat. 54° 17'.