Definition

1. Proper noun:
   • An island in the West Indies: "Haiti" can refer to the entire island of Hispaniola, which it shares with the Dominican Republic, though this usage is historical or geographical.
   • A republic in the West Indies: "Haiti" is a country located on the western part of the island of Hispaniola. It achieved independence from France in 1804 and is often cited as the first independent nation of Latin America and the Caribbean, and the world's first black-led republic.

Usage Examples

• Proper noun (Country):
  • Haiti shares the island of Hispaniola with the Dominican Republic.
  • The capital of Haiti is Port-au-Prince.
  • Haiti gained its independence in 1804 after a successful slave revolt.

Advanced Usage

• "Haiti" in historical context: Often used when discussing colonialism, the Atlantic slave trade, or the history of revolutions.
  • The Haitian Revolution was a pivotal event in the history of the Americas.

Variants and Related Words

• Haitian (adjective): Of or relating to Haiti or its people.
  • She is studying Haitian history.
• Haitian (noun): A native or inhabitant of Haiti.
  • He is a Haitian living abroad.

Synonyms

• Republic of Haiti: The official name of the country.
• Hispaniola: The name of the island containing Haiti and the Dominican Republic. (Note: This is the island, not a direct synonym for the country).

Related Phrases and Contexts

• Haitian Creole: The language spoken by the majority of Haitians, alongside French.
  • Haitian Creole is a French-based creole language.
• Haitian gourde: The official currency of Haiti.
  • Prices are listed in Haitian gourdes.

Noun

1. an island in the West Indies
2. a republic in the West Indies on the western part of the island of Hispaniola; achieved independence from France in 1804; the poorest and most illiterate nation in the western hemisphere