asia
|a-si-a|
/ˈeɪʒə/
the large eastern landmass
Etymology
'asia' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'Asia', which came from Ancient Greek 'Ἀσία' (Asía); the Greek name may ultimately derive from Akkadian 'asu' meaning 'east' or 'sunrise'.
'asia' passed from Ancient Greek 'Ἀσία' into Latin as 'Asia', was used in Medieval and Early Modern Latin and English, and eventually became the modern English word 'asia'.
Initially it could refer to a region of Anatolia or the eastern lands known to the Greeks; over time it broadened to denote the entire continent now called 'Asia'.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
the world's largest continent, located mainly in the Eastern and Northern Hemispheres; often referred to as the landmass comprising countries such as China, India, Japan and others.
asia is the largest continent.
Noun 2
historically or regionally, a large area or region of the Eastern world (used in historical contexts or phrases).
In ancient maps, 'asia' sometimes referred more narrowly to Anatolia.
Last updated: 2025/10/28 18:16