Definition

The largest part of a continent, not including any islands nearby.

Example

The mainland is home to most of the country's population.

Conversation

Have you ever visited the mainland of that country we talked about?

Not yet, but I've heard it's really beautiful there.

I want to go explore the mainland next summer.

That sounds like an amazing trip; we should plan it together!

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Mainland → It is formed from "main" (from Old English *mǣne*, meaning principal or chief) and "land" (from Old English *land*, meaning ground or territory). The word "mainland" refers to the principal landmass of a country or region, as opposed to its islands or other territories.

Memory Tip

Think of 'main' as the principal part and 'land' as the ground or territory — together, they describe the main area of land.

Visually Confused Words