A1noun1K

Island

UK /["/ˈaɪlənd/"]/US /["/ˈaɪlənd/"]/

Definition

a piece of land that is completely surrounded by water

In simple words: A piece of land surrounded by water.

Examples

  • We spent our vacation on a beautiful island.
  • The island is surrounded by crystal clear water.
  • There are many interesting plants and animals on the island.
  • The island group consists of three different islands.
  • She dreams of living on a deserted island.

Usage notes

Use 'island' to refer to isolated land areas. It can be a neutral term for geography but is often used in travel contexts. Avoid using in overly formal discussions.

Grammar pattern

standalone noun

Memory hint

Think of 'I land on an island' — imagine yourself arriving at a tropical retreat.

Collocations

  • outlying
  • remote
  • coral
  • chain
  • group
  • chain
  • group
  • home
  • on an/​the island
  • the… coast, side, tip, etc. of an island

Synonyms

  • isle
  • cay
  • atoll
  • landmass
  • archipelago

Antonyms

  • mainland

Common mistakes

  • Confusing 'island' with 'isle' — 'isle' is a more poetic term.
  • Using 'island' for non-land areas, such as a floating island of trash.
  • Incorrectly pronouncing it as 'is-land' instead of 'eye-land'.