Island Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐๏ธ
island
[หaษชlษnd ]
Definitions
tropical paradise
An island is a piece of land surrounded by water. Islands can vary in size from small, uninhabited islets to large landmasses like Greenland or Australia. They are often popular tourist destinations due to their unique flora, fauna, and landscapes.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| island |
An island is a landmass surrounded by water, larger than a key or an atoll, and suitable for general use in most contexts.
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| isle |
Isle is a poetic or old-fashioned way to refer to a small island. Often used in literature or when speaking romantically or nostalgically.
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| key |
A key is a term used primarily in the Caribbean and American coasts to describe a small, low-elevation island, often sandy and formed on a coral reef. Suitable for travel and geographic discussions.
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| atoll |
An atoll is a ring-shaped coral reef or a series of coral islands surrounding a lagoon. Used in discussions about marine life, coral reefs, and tropical locations.
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Examples of usage
- Many people dream of escaping to a tropical island for a relaxing vacation.
- Hawaii is famous for its beautiful islands surrounded by crystal-clear waters.
geography
In geography, an island is a landform that is completely surrounded by water. Islands can be found in oceans, seas, rivers, and lakes. They play a crucial role in the ecosystem, providing habitats for various species of plants and animals.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| island |
A piece of land surrounded by water, typically larger and can support diverse ecosystems and human habitation. Used in general to describe any sizable landmass surrounded by water.
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| islet |
A very small island, especially one that is too small to support human habitation. Often used in contexts of natural features rather than places people live.
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| cay |
A small, low-elevation sandy island on the surface of a coral reef. Often found in tropical waters and popular for beach trips and diving.
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| holme |
A small island or islet, typically found in rivers or lakes, often used in the context of specific geographical regions such as Scandinavian countries.
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Examples of usage
- The Galapagos Islands are home to a diverse range of wildlife.
- Japan is an archipelago consisting of thousands of islands.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Geography
- Islands can be formed by volcanic activity, like the Hawaiian Islands, or by the erosion of land by water, such as the Bahamas.
- There are two main types of islands: continental, which are connected to continental shelves, and oceanic, which are formed from the ocean floor.
- The largest island in the world is Greenland, showcasing how some islands can be quite massive in size.
Cultural Significance
- Many cultures have fascinating myths and stories about islands, such as Atlantis, a legendary island said to have sunk into the ocean.
- Islands often symbolize peace and isolation in literature, representing a place where characters confront themselves or seek refuge.
- In modern culture, islands have been significant in reality shows and vacation destinations, portraying them as paradises.
Biodiversity
- Islands often host unique species that are not found anywhere else on earth due to their isolation, like the bird species on the Galรกpagos Islands.
- Ecologists study islands to understand evolution, as they provide clear examples of how species adapt to distinct environments.
- Some islands face threats from climate change and invasive species, impacting their rich ecosystems.
History
- Many islands throughout history have been used as strategic military outposts due to their geographic locations.
- Islands like Alcatraz and Robben Island are significant for their roles in social justice and political history, often marking places of imprisonment and resistance.
- Explorers have often sought out new islands, leading to the discovery of new lands and cultures, shaping global history in impactful ways.
Origin of 'island'
Main points about word origin
- The word originates from the Old English 'iegland', with 'ieg' meaning 'island' and 'land' referring to land.
- In many languages, the word for island includes a root that hints at water, like 'insula' in Latin and 'insel' in German.
- Some historical texts from ancient cultures reference 'island' in connection with the idea of safety, as they were often isolated from larger dangers.
The word 'island' comes from the Old English word 'ฤซegland', which is a combination of 'ฤซeg' (island) and 'land'. The spelling was later influenced by the Old French word 'isole'. Islands have always held a mystical allure for humans, with many ancient cultures believing that islands were home to gods or mythical creatures.