island
/ˈaɪ̯lənd/ · is·land
noun
- A contiguous area of land, smaller than a continent, totally surrounded by water. The island of Hawaii is a popular tourist destination.
- An entity surrounded by other entities that are very different from itself. The island of colors on a butterfly's wing is a remarkable sight.
- A superstructure on an aircraft carrier's deck. The island on the aircraft carrier served as a command center.
verb
- To surround with water; make into an island. The river was islanded by the construction of a dam.
- To set, dot (as if) with islands. The artist islanded the painting with tiny islands of color.
- To isolate. The patient was islanded in a single room to prevent infection.
Did you know? The word 'island' has been used in various contexts, including geography, art, and literature. In the novel 'The Island of Dr. Moreau' by H.G. Wells, the island serves as a symbol of isolation and the blurring of lines between human and animal.