Definition

1. Noun:
   • A type of strong, light brown paper or thin cardboard: Manila refers to a durable paper product, originally made from Manila hemp fibers, characterized by its smooth finish and distinctive light brown color. It is commonly used for file folders, envelopes, and other stationery.
   • The capital and largest city of the Philippines: Manila is a major port city and the political, economic, and cultural center of the Philippines, located on the island of Luzon.

Usage Examples

• Noun (Material):
  • The important documents were stored in a manila folder.
  • She sealed the envelope made of sturdy manila paper.
• Noun (City):
  • Manila is a densely populated metropolis with a rich history.
  • They flew into Manila to begin their tour of the Philippines.

Advanced Usage

• "Manila envelope": A common term for a large, sturdy envelope typically made from manila paper, often used for mailing documents.
  • Please submit your application in a sealed manila envelope.
• "Manila folder": A folding file folder, usually made from manila paper, for organizing papers.
  • All the contracts are in the third manila folder in the cabinet.

Variants and Related Words

• Manila hemp (n): The strong fiber from a type of banana plant (Musa textilis), historically used to make rope and the paper known as manila.
  • The rope was traditionally woven from Manila hemp.
• Manilla (n): An alternative, less common spelling for "manila," particularly for the paper product.

Synonyms

• For the paper: Manila paper, buff paper, kraft paper (though kraft is typically stronger and darker).
• For the city: The capital, Metro Manila (referring to the larger metropolitan region).

Related Phrases

• "Manila clipper": Historical term for fast sailing ships that operated on the Manila-Acapulco trade route.
• "Manila galleon": Refers to the Spanish trading ships that sailed across the Pacific Ocean between Manila and Acapulco for over 250 years.

Noun

1. the capital and largest city of the Philippines; located on southern Luzon
2. a strong paper or thin cardboard with a smooth light brown finish made from e.g. Manila hemp