exclave

Upper-Intermediate (B2)

IPA: /ˈɛkskleɪv/

KK: /ˈɛkˌsleɪv/

noun

Definition

A section of a country that is separated from the main area and is completely surrounded by land belonging to other countries.

Example

Kaliningrad is an exclave of Russia, located between Poland and Lithuania.

Conversation

Did you know that Kaliningrad is an exclave of Russia?

Really? I had no idea it was separated from the rest of the country.

Yeah, it's interesting how it's surrounded by Poland and Lithuania.

That must make travel to the main part of Russia quite complicated!

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

enclave

territory

region

Antonyms

mainland

core

center

Root Explanation

**Exclave** → It is formed from "ex-" (meaning out of or away from) and "clavis" (meaning key). The word "exclave" refers to a portion of territory that is separated from the main part and is surrounded by foreign territory, thus being 'out of' the main area.

Memory Tip

Think of a piece of land that is 'out of' its main territory — 'ex-' means out, and 'clavis' relates to being key or essential, highlighting its separation.

Visually Confused Words

excave