Meaning & Definition of Continent in English
Continent
A large continuous mass of land conventionally regarded as a collective region.
Pronunciation:
/ˈkɒn.tɪ.nənt/Part of Speech:
nounPlural:
continentsDetailed Definitions
Definition: Any of the world's main continuous expanses of land (e.g., Africa, Asia).
Example Sentence: The continent of Africa is known for its diverse cultures and landscapes.
Definition: A region of the world that is distinguished by geographical or cultural characteristics.
Example Sentence: Europe is considered a continent known for its rich history.
Definition: In a geological context, a large landmass above sea level.
Example Sentence: The tectonic plates beneath the continent are constantly shifting.
Definition: One of the seven principal landmasses on Earth.
Example Sentence: Australia is the smallest continent on the planet.
Definition: In historical context, the term may refer to continental Europe, particularly in contrast to island nations.
Example Sentence: British culture has been heavily influenced by the continent.
Etymology
Origin: From Latin 'continentem', meaning 'something that holds together'.
Synonyms
Common Phrases and Expressions
- the continent: Referring to mainland Europe, especially in British usage.
- on the continent: In reference to being in mainland Europe.
- continent of isolation: A term for a continent that is geographically isolated from others.
Translations
- Spanish: continente
- French: continent
- German: Kontinent
- Russian: континент
Related Words
- island: A landmass completely surrounded by water.
- peninsula: A piece of land surrounded by water on three sides.
- archipelago: A group of islands.
Slang Meanings of continent
Meaning: Something large or vast.
Example Sentence: That project was a continent of work!
Meaning: Refers to a distant or significant place.
Example Sentence: I'm off to the continent for some adventure!