Definition

Proper noun 1. The Mediterranean Sea: A large, nearly enclosed sea located between Southern Europe, Northern Africa, and Western Asia. It is connected to the Atlantic Ocean by the Strait of Gibraltar.

Usage

• The Mediterranean Sea is a major historical and cultural crossroads.
• Many ancient civilizations developed around the shores of the Mediterranean Sea.
• The climate of countries bordering the Mediterranean Sea is typically warm and dry in summer.

Advanced Usage

• "The Mediterranean": Often used alone to refer to the Mediterranean Sea or the region surrounding it.
  • We spent our vacation sailing in the Mediterranean.
• "Mediterranean climate": A climate type characterized by hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters, typical of areas around this sea.
  • Parts of California have a Mediterranean climate.

Variants and Related Words

• Mediterranean (adjective): Of or relating to the Mediterranean Sea or the region surrounding it.
  • Mediterranean cuisine is known for its use of olive oil, vegetables, and seafood.

Synonyms

• The Mediterranean
• The Med (informal)

Related Phrases

• Mediterranean Basin: The region of lands around the Mediterranean Sea.
• Mediterranean diet: A dietary pattern inspired by the traditional eating habits of people from this region.

Noun

1. the largest inland sea; between Europe and Africa and Asia