'Jamaica' originates from the indigenous Taino language, specifically the word 'Xaymaca,' where 'xay' meant 'wood' and 'maca' meant 'water.'

'Xaymaca' was adapted into Spanish as 'Jamaica,' and eventually became the modern English name 'Jamaica.'

Initially, it referred to the land of wood and water, and this meaning has largely remained the same in modern usage.