What IS an English muffin?

Muffins (as in Kingsmill muffins), but not American muffins (as in Starbucks)

So an english muffin is an english muffin?

Does one even pronounce Cretin and Cretan differently?

What are English Muffins?
In the USA English Muffins are something like crumpets - about 3" across and about 1" thick. They are sliced open and toasted. Good ones (like Thomas') have a slight sourdough tang, and are actually quite tasty with butter and jam. They also make great mini pizzas.
'Regular' muffins are cupcake shaped breakfast pastries, often baked with berries or nuts. My favorite are corn muffins, which are made with cornmeal.