Definition

Proper noun 1. A country in the South Pacific Ocean: An independent island nation located in the southwestern Pacific Ocean, comprising two main landmasses—the North Island and the South Island—and numerous smaller islands. 2. The geographical region of these islands: The physical land area and associated small islands, known for its diverse and dramatic landscapes.

Usage Examples

• As a country:

  • She moved to New Zealand last year.
  • New Zealand is a constitutional monarchy.
  • The capital of New Zealand is Wellington.

• As a geographical region:

  • The flora and fauna of New Zealand are unique.
  • They went hiking in the mountains of New Zealand.

Advanced Usage

• "New Zealand" as an attributive noun: Used before another noun to describe something originating from or related to the country.
  • We tried a New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc.
  • He follows New Zealand politics closely.

Variants and Related Words

• New Zealander (noun): A person from New Zealand.
  • The team included several New Zealanders.
• Kiwi (noun, informal): A colloquial term for a person from New Zealand, derived from the national bird.
  • He's a Kiwi living abroad.

Synonyms

• Aotearoa (noun): The Māori name for New Zealand, commonly used in both English and Māori contexts within the country.
  • The history of Aotearoa spans centuries.

Related Phrases

• "From New Zealand": Used to indicate origin.
  • This product is from New Zealand.
• "In New Zealand": Used to indicate location.
  • There are many glaciers in New Zealand.

Noun

1. North Island and South Island and adjacent small islands in the South Pacific
2. an independent country within the British Commonwealth; achieved independence from the United Kingdom in 1907; known for sheep and spectacular scenery