Definition

Proper noun 1. The continents of North America and South America: Refers to the landmass comprising North America, Central America, and South America. 2. The United States of America: A common informal name for the country officially known as the United States of America.

Usage Examples

• Referring to the continents:
  • Many ancient civilizations flourished in America long before European contact.
  • The biodiversity of America is incredibly rich, from the Arctic tundra to the Amazon rainforest.
• Referring to the country:
  • She moved to America to pursue her education.
  • The economic policies of America often have a global impact.

Advanced Usage

• "The Americas": The preferred formal term when referring to the continents collectively (North, Central, and South America).
  • Columbus's voyages opened up exchange between Europe and the Americas.
• "American": The primary adjective and demonym (noun for a person) derived from "America." Its specific meaning depends on context.
  • American culture (often implies U.S. culture).
  • American continents (refers to the continents).

Variants and Related Words

• American (adj): Of or relating to the United States or to the continents of North and South America.
  • American history; American wildlife.
• American (n): A citizen or native of the United States; also, less commonly, a native or inhabitant of North or South America.
  • She is an American. The ancient Americans developed complex societies.
• Americas (n, plural): The landmasses of North and South America, including Central America.

Synonyms

• For the country: The United States, the U.S., the USA, the States (informal).
• For the continents: The New World (historical), the Western Hemisphere (geographical).

Notes on Meaning

The word "America" carries two primary meanings, which can cause ambiguity. In much of the world, and often in English, it is used informally to mean the United States of America. In academic, historical, or geographical contexts, it more accurately refers to the continents. The phrase "the Americas" is used to specify the continents and avoid confusion with the country.

Noun

1. North America and South America and Central America
2. North American republic containing 50 states - 48 conterminous states in North America plus Alaska in northwest North America and the Hawaiian Islands in the Pacific Ocean; achieved independence in 1776