island
/ˈaɪ.lənd/ noun A1- A contiguous area of land, smaller than a continent, totally surrounded by water.
- A contiguous area of land, smaller than a continent, partially surrounded by water; a peninsula; a half-island. · Despite its name, Barry Island is actually a peninsula
- An entity surrounded by other entities that are very different from itself. · The quiet library was an island of tranquility in the noisy, bustling city.· an island of colors on a butterfly's wing
- A superstructure on an aircraft carrier's deck.
- A traffic island. · the island in the middle of a roundabout
- A roundabout; a traffic circle. · Dunton island, near Birmingham, is one of the most confusingly labelled islands in the U.K.· In Coventry, you will often hear people say: “Turn right at the island”.
- A bench, counter, etc., that is not connected to a wall or other furniture and which can be used from any side.
- An unincorporated area wholly surrounded by one or more incorporated areas.
Plural islands
From the library
We performed the usual burial service, and he is at his rest, sewn up in his hammock with a thirty-six-pound shot at his head and his heels, off El Giglio island.
Scarcely was the captain’s breath out of his body when he assumed the command without consulting anyone, and he caused us to lose a day and a half at the Island of Elba, instead of making for Marseilles direct.”
“As to taking command of the vessel,” replied Morrel, “that was his duty as captain’s mate; as to losing a day and a half off the Island of Elba, he was wrong, unless the vessel needed repairs.”
“I wished to inquire why you stopped at the Island of Elba?”
Other matches
Learn island in real texts
With a free account, hover any word in the library for its meaning, hear it read aloud, save words for review timed to your memory, and see how much of each book you already know.