ENGLISH
REFERENCE

aberdeen

n. uncountable
B2 Upper Intermediate US //ˈæbɝˌdin// ab·erdeen

n. a large city in northeast Scotland known for its grey stone buildings and its history with the oil industry.

n. a major port city in northeast Scotland, serving as a principal hub for the North Sea energy industry. Often referred to as the 'Granite City' due to its distinctive local building materials.


SIMPLE

He moved to Aberdeen to work in the energy sector.

CONTEXTUAL

Many international students choose to study at the historic university in Aberdeen because of its strong academic reputation.

COMPLEX

As the third most populous city in Scotland, Aberdeen serves as a vital economic engine for the region, balancing its maritime heritage with modern technological innovation.

Origin

The first is from Pictish ᚐᚁᚓᚏ (aber, “confluence”), from Proto-Celtic abū (“river”). The second element comes from the river Don (the site of Old Aberdeen). Written Aberdon circa 1187 and Aberden circa 1214. The area and town in Hong Kong is named after George Hamilton-Gordon, 4th Earl of Aberdeen.

Usage

Used as a proper noun; typically does not take an article unless used as a modifier.

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