isle

UK: /aɪl/ | US: /aɪl/

Definition

  1. n. a small island

Structure
isl <island>e <silent letter>
Etymology

isle = isl<island> + e<silent letter>

  • isl (from Latin insula meaning "island")
  • e (a silent letter added in Middle English for orthographic convention)

Etymology Origin:
The word "isle" traces back to Old French isle, derived from Latin insula (island). The spelling was later modified in Middle English by adding a silent "e," likely to align with other French-derived words or to distinguish it from similar terms. The core meaning has remained consistent, referring to a small island, often poetic or archaic in modern usage.

Examples

  1. The tiny isle was surrounded by crystal-clear water.

  2. They sailed to a secluded isle in the Mediterranean.

  3. Legends speak of a mystical isle hidden by fog.

  4. The map marked the unnamed isle with an "X."

  5. He dreamed of retiring to a quiet isle far from cities.