English Reference
noun · adjective

mediterranean

n. · adj.
US /ˌmɛdətɝˈeɪniən/ mediter·ranean

  1. 01 A2 Elementary

    n.the large sea between southern Europe, northern Africa, and western Asia.

    n.the Mediterranean Sea; a large inland branch of the Atlantic Ocean bounded by Europe, Africa, and Asia.

    Simple

    We spent two weeks sailing across the Mediterranean last summer.

    In context

    The Mediterranean has served as a vital maritime crossroads for millennia, facilitating trade and cultural exchange between diverse civilisations.

  2. 02 B1 Intermediate

    n.the countries and land surrounding the Mediterranean Sea.

    n.the geographical and cultural region comprising the countries bordering the Mediterranean Sea.

    Simple

    Many people in the Mediterranean live a very healthy lifestyle.

    In context

    Economic cooperation across the Mediterranean remains a primary focus for European Union foreign policy initiatives.

  3. 03 B1 Intermediate Informal Cooking

    n.a style of cooking that uses ingredients like olive oil, vegetables, and fish.

    n.Mediterranean cuisine; a culinary style originating from the countries surrounding the Mediterranean Sea.

    Simple

    I really love Mediterranean, especially the fresh salads and grilled fish.

    In context

    The restaurant specialises in authentic Mediterranean, sourcing its olive oil and spices directly from small producers in Greece and Italy.

  4. 04 A2 Elementary

    adj.relating to the Mediterranean Sea or the countries around it.

    adj.pertaining to the Mediterranean Sea, its surrounding lands, or its characteristic climate and culture.

    Simple

    The hotel has a beautiful Mediterranean garden with olive and lemon trees.

    In context

    The region is famous for its Mediterranean climate, characterised by hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters.


Borrowed from Latin mediterrāneus, inland, from medius (“middle”) + terra (“earth, land”) + -āneus (adjectival suffix).

Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.

This entry
Origin Latin mediterrāneus
Level A2 · Elementary
Frequency Frequent
Updated