island

noun

ˈī-lənd How to pronounce island (audio)
Definition of islandnext
as in isle
a fairly small area of land completely surrounded by water the island of Hawaii is the largest in the Hawaiian archipelago

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of island But the island’s multiple crises forced the government to end the previous school year in June — one month early. — Dánica Coto, Los Angeles Times, 1 Sep. 2026 Videos circulating online show crowds lining the narrow streets of Oia to pose in front of the Greek island's famous blue-domed churches — with some visitors lining up early in the morning for their turn. — Kelly McGreal, FOXNews.com, 1 Sep. 2026 The National Park Service on Friday adopted a new visitation policy for the island, which the federal agency manages as a national seashore. — Aj Willingham, AJC.com, 1 Sep. 2026 While the island is surrounded by lake water on all sides, there isn't a huge swimming culture among visitors, as the beaches are pretty rocky. — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 1 Sep. 2026 See All Example Sentences for island
Recent Examples of Synonyms for island
  1. isle
  2. atoll
Noun
  • There’s truly not a bad suite on the isle, but the second-story Island Premier Suites, which showcase the top views and provide a spacious 1,020-square-foot suite to enjoy them, is a standout.
    — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 19 Aug. 2026
  • The bleakness of those far northern isles, the punishing, incessant wind, the wild beauty of the land and rugged coastline are unforgettably conjured alongside her inner struggle to stay sober.
    — Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 19 Aug. 2026
Definition of isle
Noun
  • Colonial powers reshaped many atolls, removing native forests to plant fast-growing coconut palm plantations.
    — NPR, NPR, 3 Aug. 2026
  • The tiny coral limestone atoll was colonized by Germany and later administered by Australia before becoming an independent republic in 1968.
    — Charlotte Graham-McLay, Los Angeles Times, 3 Aug. 2026
Definition of atoll

Browse Nearby Words

is friends with
island
islands
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Cite this Entry

“Island.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/island. Accessed 5 Sep. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on island

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about island

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