# Isle

/ˈaɪɫ/ (US) · /ˈaɪəl/ (UK)

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

## Senses

### 1. a small island

noun · CEFR B2 · Literary

a small island, often used in names or poetry.

For teachers: an island, usually of a smaller size. Often used in geographical proper names or to evoke a poetic tone.

- The tiny rocky isle was home to hundreds of seabirds.
- The explorers anchored their vessel in the lee of a remote isle, hoping to find fresh water among the palms.

Usage: Commonly appears in proper nouns like 'the British Isles' or 'the Isle of Man'.

## Examples

- The boat sailed toward the small isle.
- The Isle of Wight is a popular destination for tourists looking to enjoy the English coast.
- The poet described a lonely isle where the only sounds were the rhythmic crashing of waves and the cries of distant gulls.

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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.