# Mediterranean

/ˌmɛdətɝˈeɪniən/ (US)

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

## Senses

### 1. the sea

noun · CEFR A2

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

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

- We spent two weeks sailing across the Mediterranean last summer.
- The Mediterranean has served as a vital maritime crossroads for millennia, facilitating trade and cultural exchange between diverse civilisations.

### 2. the region

noun · CEFR B1

the countries and land surrounding the Mediterranean Sea.

For teachers: the geographical and cultural region comprising the countries bordering the Mediterranean Sea.

- Many people in the Mediterranean live a very healthy lifestyle.
- Economic cooperation across the Mediterranean remains a primary focus for European Union foreign policy initiatives.

### 3. the cuisine

noun · CEFR B1 · Informal

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

For teachers: Mediterranean cuisine; a culinary style originating from the countries surrounding the Mediterranean Sea.

- I really love Mediterranean, especially the fresh salads and grilled fish.
- The restaurant specialises in authentic Mediterranean, sourcing its olive oil and spices directly from small producers in Greece and Italy.

### 4. relating to the area

adjective · CEFR A2

relating to the Mediterranean Sea or the countries around it.

For teachers: pertaining to the Mediterranean Sea, its surrounding lands, or its characteristic climate and culture.

- The hotel has a beautiful Mediterranean garden with olive and lemon trees.
- The region is famous for its Mediterranean climate, characterised by hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters.

## Examples

- We spent our summer holiday by the Mediterranean.
- Many ancient civilizations flourished along the shores of the Mediterranean due to its favorable climate and trade routes.
- The unique biodiversity of the Mediterranean is currently under threat from rising water temperatures and the introduction of invasive species through the Suez Canal.

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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.