island
UK: ˈaɪ.lənd | US: ˈaɪ.lənd
n. a piece of land surrounded by water
n. something resembling an island in isolation or distinctness
The word "island" originates from Old English īegland (īeg "island" + land "land"). Interestingly, the modern spelling was influenced by the unrelated Old French word isle (from Latin insula), which led to the insertion of the silent "s" in the 16th century. The original Germanic root īeg survives in place names like "Anglesey" but was otherwise replaced by the hybrid form "island." This blending of Germanic and Latin elements reflects the word’s unique linguistic evolution.
The small island was uninhabited except for birds.
Hawaii is a chain of volcanic islands in the Pacific.
The kitchen island provides extra counter space.
He felt like an island in the crowded city.
The scientist studied the island’s unique ecosystem.