ENGLISH
REFERENCE

jordan

n. countable
B1 Intermediate US //ˈdʒɔɹdən// jor·dan Archaic

n. a country in the Middle East that shares borders with Israel, Syria, Iraq, and Saudi Arabia. It is famous for its ancient city of Petra and its desert landscapes.

n. a sovereign Arab kingdom in Western Asia, situated at the crossroads of Asia, Africa, and Europe. When used as a proper name, it refers to the nation-state or the river forming its western border.


SIMPLE

Many tourists visit Jordan to see the ancient ruins of Petra.

CONTEXTUAL

The government of Jordan has worked extensively to manage water resources in its arid climate.

COMPLEX

Diplomatic relations in the Levant often hinge on the stability of Jordan, which serves as a critical mediator and host to significant refugee populations from neighboring conflicts.

Origin

From Latin Iordanēs, from Ancient Greek Ἰορδάνης (Iordánēs), from Biblical Hebrew יַרְדֵּן (yardén, “Jordan (river)”). Doublet of Yarden. The area in Hong Kong is named after Jordan station, which is named after Jordan Road, which in turn is named after Sir John Jordan.

Usage

Always capitalized as it is a proper noun; typically used without an article unless referring to the Jordan River.

© 2026 English Reference