Island — Meaning, Definition & Synonyms

noun verb /ˈī-lənd/ is·land

Meaning & Definition of Island

Island (noun)

  1. a tract of land surrounded by water and smaller than a continent
  2. something resembling an island especially in its isolated or surrounded position
  3. a usually raised area within a thoroughfare, parking lot, or driveway used especially to separate or direct traffic

Island (verb)

  1. to make into or as if into an island
  2. to dot with or as if with islands
  3. isolate

Island (noun) — Senses, Synonyms & Antonyms

  1. a fairly small area of land completely surrounded by water

    "the island of Hawaii is the largest in the Hawaiian archipelago"

    similar: isle, islet

Synonyms, Thesaurus & Another Word for Island

The most common words with a similar meaning to Island:

Near Antonyms of Island

Word Forms of Island

Inflections: islanded, islanding, islands

Origin & Etymology of Island

alteration (influenced by Anglo-French isle) of earlier iland, from Middle English, from Old English īgland (akin to Old Norse eyland), from īg island (akin to Old English ēa river, Latin aqua water) + land land

First known use: before 12th century

Vocabulary Lists & Topics for Island

Words & Phrases Containing Island

Frequently Asked Questions about Island

What does "Island" mean?

"Island" means a tract of land surrounded by water and smaller than a continent. As an a noun and a verb, it is defined as: a tract of land surrounded by water and smaller than a continent.

What is another word for "Island"?

Other words for "Island" include isle and islet. The best synonym depends on which meaning of "Island" you intend.

How do you use "Island" in a sentence?

Examples of "Island" in a sentence: "the island of Hawaii is the largest in the Hawaiian archipelago".

Is "Island" a noun, verb, or adjective?

"Island" can be used as a noun and a verb, depending on the context.

Is "Island" useful for IELTS, TOEFL, and other English exams?

As an A1-level word, "Island" is typical of Cambridge A1 Movers (Young Learners), TOEIC Listening & Reading 120+.

How do you pronounce "Island"?

"Island" is pronounced /ˈī-lənd/ and divided into syllables as is·land.

What is the origin of the word "Island"?

"Island" comes from alteration (influenced by Anglo-French isle) of earlier iland, from Middle English, from Old English īgland (akin to Old Norse eyland), from īg island (akin to Old English ēa river, Latin aqua water) + land land. First known use: before 12th century.

What is another word for "Island" meaning "a fairly small area of land completely surrounded by water"?

When "Island" (noun) means a fairly small area of land completely surrounded by water, synonyms include isle and islet.