Definition

1. Proper noun:
   • A mountainous peninsula in northwestern Mexico: Baja California is a long, narrow peninsula extending southward from the U.S. state of California into the Pacific Ocean. It is separated from mainland Mexico by the Gulf of California (also known as the Sea of Cortez).

Usage Examples

• Proper noun:
  • We drove the entire length of Baja California.
  • The unique ecosystems of Baja California attract many scientists.
  • Baja California is known for its stunning desert landscapes and coastal scenery.

Advanced Usage

• "the Baja California peninsula": A more formal or descriptive way to refer to the entire geographic feature.

  • The Baja California peninsula is over 1,200 kilometers long.

• "in Baja California": Used to indicate location within the peninsula.

  • There are several beautiful missions located in Baja California.

Variants and Related Words

• Baja: (noun) A common informal shortening of "Baja California."

  • We're planning a surfing trip to Baja next month.

• Baja California Sur: (proper noun) The Mexican state comprising the southern part of the Baja California peninsula.

  • La Paz is the capital of Baja California Sur.

• Peninsula: (noun) A piece of land almost surrounded by water or projecting out into a body of water. This is the geographical category for Baja California.

Synonyms

• The Baja Peninsula: An alternative name emphasizing its geographical form.
• Lower California: A historical English name for the region.

Related Terms and Context

• Gulf of California / Sea of Cortez: The body of water that separates the Baja California peninsula from the Mexican mainland.
• Mexicali: A major city in the north of the peninsula.
• Cabo San Lucas: A famous resort city at the southern tip of the peninsula.

Noun

1. a mountainous peninsula on northwest Mexico