# manhattan

/mænˈhætən/ (US) · /mænhˈætən/ (UK) · CEFR B1 · Noun

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

## Definition

one of the five main areas of New York City. It is a famous island known for its tall buildings, busy streets, and central park.

For teachers: a borough of New York City, coextensive with New York County, situated primarily on an island at the mouth of the Hudson River. It serves as the city's economic and administrative center.

## Examples

- We took a walk through Manhattan to see the skyscrapers.
- Many people commute into Manhattan every morning to work in the high-rise office buildings of the Financial District.
- The skyline of Manhattan remains one of the most recognizable urban landscapes in the world, symbolizing the architectural and economic ambitions of the early twentieth century.

## Usage notes

- Usually treated as a proper noun and capitalized; when referring to the cocktail, it is also capitalized.

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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.