The Complete Vocabulary Builder Workbook

archipelago

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Dictionary definition of archipelago

A group of islands that are located close to each other, usually in a large body of water such as an ocean or a sea.
"The Galápagos Islands are a unique and biodiverse archipelago."

Detailed meaning of archipelago

The term is often used to refer to a chain of islands that are formed as a result of volcanic activity or as a result of land subsidence. Archipelagos can vary greatly in size and can include a few small islands or thousands of islands. Some of the most famous examples of archipelagos include the Galapagos Islands, the Hawaiian Islands, and the Philippines.

Archipelagos can also be found in freshwater bodies of water such as lakes and rivers. Archipelagos can be home to unique and diverse ecosystems, with a wide range of plant and animal species that are found nowhere else in the world. These islands can also be important for tourism, recreation and commercial activities such as fishing and shipping.

Archipelagos also play an important role in human history, as they have been home to many cultures, and have been used as a base for trade, exploration, and colonization. They can also be used as a natural barrier to protect the mainland from severe weather or from invasion.

Overall, an archipelago is a group of islands that are located close to each other and form a natural or cultural unit.

Example sentences containing archipelago

1. The Greek archipelago is known for its stunning islands.
2. Exploring the Indonesian archipelago is a dream for many travelers.
3. An archipelago consists of a group of islands clustered together.
4. The Caribbean archipelago is famous for its beautiful beaches.
5. Japan is an archipelago composed of thousands of islands.
6. We sailed through the picturesque archipelago in the South Pacific.

History and etymology of archipelago

The noun 'archipelago' has its etymology rooted in Greek. It is derived from the Greek words 'arkhi,' meaning 'chief' or 'principal,' and 'pelagos,' meaning 'sea.' In ancient Greek, 'arkhipelagos' was used to describe the Aegean Sea, which is dotted with numerous islands. Over time, the term evolved and was adopted into various languages, including English, to refer to a group of islands that are located close to each other, typically in a large body of water such as an ocean or a sea. 'Archipelago' emphasizes the idea of these islands as a principal or significant cluster within a body of water, reflecting its Greek origins in the concept of a chief or principal sea with numerous islands.

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Further usage examples of archipelago

1. The Hawaiian archipelago is formed by volcanic islands.
2. The Philippines is an archipelago with more than 7,000 islands.
3. Many species of birds migrate between islands in an archipelago.
4. The Mediterranean archipelago offers a variety of cultural experiences.
5. The Maldives is an archipelago known for its luxurious resorts.
6. The Polynesian archipelago spans a vast area of the Pacific Ocean.
7. An archipelago can have a diverse range of ecosystems.
8. The Cyclades is a famous Greek archipelago in the Aegean Sea.
9. Navigating through the maze-like archipelago can be challenging.
10. The Indonesian archipelago is home to rich marine life.
11. The wildlife in the Arctic archipelago is adapted to harsh conditions.
12. The remote archipelago was a perfect destination for a digital detox.
13. The archipelago's isolation contributed to its unique culture.
14. Islands in an archipelago can vary in size and terrain.
15. The archipelago's geography influenced its history and trade routes.
16. The archipelago's beauty attracts tourists from around the world.