Island

Definition

Island is a noun that refers to a piece of land surrounded by water. It can also metaphorically describe something isolated or detached from its surroundings.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈaɪlənd/
• Respelling: EYE-luhnd

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈaɪlənd/
• Respelling: EYE-luhnd

Etymology

The word "island" originates from Old English "ī(e)gland," meaning "watery land," composed of "īeg" (island) and "land." The silent "s" was later added due to influence from Old French "isle" and Latin "insula."

Derivatives

• Islander (noun)
• Islet (noun)
• Island-hopping (noun/verb)
• Islandic (adjective, rare)
• Archipelago (noun, related term)

Synonyms

• Isle
• Atoll
• Key

Antonyms

• Continent
• Mainland
• None

Usage

The noun "island" is commonly used in geographical, metaphorical, and literary contexts. For example, "Hawaii is an island chain in the Pacific Ocean" describes a physical location, while "He lived on an island of isolation" uses the term metaphorically.

Related Terms

• Archipelago: A group of islands.
• Peninsula: A landform surrounded by water on most sides but connected to the mainland.
• Reef: A ridge of rock, coral, or sand lying beneath the water's surface, often near islands.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• A piece of land surrounded by water: Refers to a geographical landmass completely enclosed by water.
  • Example: "The Caribbean is home to many beautiful islands."
• Something isolated or detached: Refers to a metaphorical or symbolic representation of isolation.
  • Example: "Her quiet house was an island of peace amidst the chaos."