guiana
Proper noun A geographical region in northeastern South America, historically comprising several territories and now including the independent nations of Guyana and Suriname, as well as French Guiana, an overseas department of France. It is characterized by a tropical climate, dense rainforests, and a coastline along the Atlantic Ocean.
"Guiana" is used as a proper noun to refer to the specific region. It is often preceded by a national modifier (e.g., French Guiana) or used historically to refer to the collective area. * The explorer mapped the uncharted rivers of Guiana. * French Guiana is home to the European Space Agency's launch site.
- The Guianas: This plural form is commonly used to refer collectively to the three main political entities in the region: Guyana, Suriname, and French Guiana.
- The wildlife across the Guianas is incredibly diverse.
- Guianan (adjective): Of or relating to Guiana.
- The Guianan shield is a major geological formation.
- British Guiana: The former name for the colony that became Guyana.
- Dutch Guiana: The former name for the colony that became Suriname.
This word functions almost exclusively as a proper noun referring to the geographical region. It does not have other distinct meanings.
- The Guianas (when referring to the collective region)
"Guiana" is primarily a geographical and historical term. In modern political contexts, the specific country names (Guyana, Suriname, French Guiana) are preferred. The term originates from an indigenous phrase meaning "land of many waters."
- a geographical region of northeastern South America including Guyana and Surinam