Definition

1. Proper noun:
   • Vasco da Gama: A Portuguese explorer and navigator who was the first European to reach India by sea, linking Europe and Asia via the Atlantic and Indian Oceans. He led an expedition around the Cape of Good Hope in 1497-1499.

Usage Examples

• Proper noun:
  • Vasco da Gama was a key figure in the Age of Discovery.
  • The voyage of da Gama opened a direct sea route from Europe to Asia.
  • Many history books discuss the impact of da Gama's expeditions.

Advanced Usage

• "The da Gama epoch": Refers to the historical period initiated by his voyages, marking the beginning of European colonialism in Asia.
  • The spice trade was revolutionized during the da Gama epoch.

Variants and Related Words

• Gama, Vasco da: Alternative and full-name references.
  • The city of Vasco da Gama in Goa, India, is named after the explorer.

Synonyms

• Explorer: A person who explores an unfamiliar area.
• Navigator: A person who directs the route of a ship or other vehicle.
• Voyager: A person who goes on a long journey, especially by sea.

Related Phrases

• "The route of da Gama": Refers to the sea path he established.
  • Merchant ships followed the route of da Gama for centuries.

Related Idioms

• "To open a da Gama": (Rare, historical) To pioneer a new and significant route or method.
  • The researcher aimed to open a da Gama in renewable energy technology.

Noun

1. Portuguese navigator who led an expedition around the Cape of Good Hope in 1497; he sighted and named Natal on Christmas Day before crossing the Indian Ocean (1469-1524)