Definition

Proper noun 1. A former name for the Republic of Guinea-Bissau: This term historically refers to the West African territory that was a Portuguese colony until it gained independence. The name was used to distinguish it from the neighboring French Guinea (now Guinea).

Usage

• The term Portuguese Guinea is primarily used in historical contexts to refer to the period of Portuguese colonial rule.
• Example: "During the colonial era, Portuguese Guinea was an important trading post."

Advanced Usage

• The name Portuguese Guinea fell out of common use after the territory's independence and the adoption of the name Guinea-Bissau.

Variants and Related Words

• Guinea-Bissau (Proper noun): The modern official name of the independent republic.
• Bissau-Guinean (Adjective): Relating to Guinea-Bissau or its people.

Synonyms

• Guinea-Bissau (current name)

Notes on Meaning

• This term has a specific historical and geographical meaning. It is not used to refer to the modern nation in contemporary contexts, where "Guinea-Bissau" is the correct and preferred term.

Noun

1. a republic on the northwestern coast of Africa; recognized as independent by Portugal in 1974