# Ceylon

/siˈɫɑn/ (US) · CEFR C2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/ceylon
Updated: 2026-08-15

## Definition

the former name of the country now called Sri Lanka. You still see this name used today for tea that comes from that region.

For teachers: the official name of the island nation of Sri Lanka until 1972. In modern usage, it persists primarily as a geographical designation for agricultural exports, particularly tea.

## Examples

- He drinks a cup of Ceylon tea every morning.
- The history books explain how the island of Ceylon gained independence before eventually changing its name to Sri Lanka.
- While the political entity has long been known as Sri Lanka, the branding of Ceylon tea remains a powerful global trademark, protected by strict geographical indication laws.

## Usage notes

- Used as a proper noun to refer to the historical state or as a modifier for products like tea and cinnamon.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.