Definition

1. Proper noun:
   • A monarchy on a Polynesian archipelago in the South Pacific; achieved independence from the United Kingdom in 1970: This is the historical and formal name for the Kingdom of Tonga, a sovereign state comprising over 170 islands. The name "Friendly Islands" was given by Captain James Cook in the 1770s due to the warm reception he received from the inhabitants.

Usage Examples

• Proper noun:
  • Captain Cook named the archipelago the "Friendly Islands" during his voyages.
  • The Friendly Islands, now known as Tonga, have a rich cultural heritage.

Advanced Usage

• The term is often used in historical or geographical contexts to refer to Tonga, particularly when discussing European exploration of the Pacific.
  • In historical texts, one often encounters the name "Friendly Islands" for what is modern-day Tonga.

Variants and Related Words

• Tonga: The contemporary and official name of the country.
• Kingdom of Tonga: The full official title of the nation.

Synonyms

• Tonga: The direct and modern synonym.
• The Kingdom of Tonga: The formal synonym.

Notes on Meaning

• The term "Friendly Islands" is primarily a historical exonym (a name given by outsiders). Its usage in modern English is largely historical or poetic. The preferred and contemporary term for the country is "Tonga."

Noun

1. a monarchy on a Polynesian archipelago in the South Pacific; achieved independence from the United Kingdom in 1970