Definition

1. Adjective:
   • Of or relating to Sri Lanka (formerly Ceylon) or its people or culture: The word "Ceylonese" describes something originating from, characteristic of, or connected to the island nation now known as Sri Lanka, which was formerly called Ceylon.

Usage Examples

• Adjective:
  • The museum has a fine collection of Ceylonese masks. (The museum has a fine collection of masks from Sri Lanka.)
  • She studied traditional Ceylonese dance forms. (She studied traditional dance forms from Sri Lanka.)
  • The recipe is for a classic Ceylonese curry. (The recipe is for a classic curry from Sri Lanka.)

Advanced Usage

• Historical/Formal Context: The term "Ceylonese" is primarily used in historical contexts or in formal names (e.g., Ceylonese cinnamon). In modern usage, "Sri Lankan" is the preferred and more common adjective.
  • The Ceylonese delegation attended the Commonwealth conference in 1948.
  • This antique map shows the Ceylonese coastline.

Variants and Related Words

• Ceylon (n): The former name for the island nation of Sri Lanka.
• Sri Lankan (adj): The modern adjective meaning of or relating to Sri Lanka. This is the preferred contemporary term.

Synonyms

• Sri Lankan: Of or relating to Sri Lanka. (This is the direct modern synonym and replacement for "Ceylonese".)

Notes on Usage

• The term "Ceylonese" is considered dated. While it is still understood and used in specific historical or traditional contexts (e.g., referring to antiques, historical documents, or certain cultural products like "Ceylonese tea"), the adjective Sri Lankan is standard for general modern use. It is important to be aware of this shift in terminology.

Adjective

1. of or relating to Sri Lanka (formerly Ceylon) or its people or culture
   • Sri Lankan beaches
   • Sri Lankan forces fighting the Sinhalese rebels