Maldives

[ mawl-deevz, mal-dahyvz ]

noun
  1. a republic in the Indian Ocean, SW of India, consisting of about 2000 islands: British protectorate 1887–1965. 115 sq. mi. (298 sq. km). Capital: Male.

  • Also called Maldive Islands.

Other words from Maldives

  • Mal·div·i·an [mawl-div-ee-uhn, mal‐], /mɔlˈdɪv i ən, mæl‐/, adjective, noun

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British Dictionary definitions for Maldives

Maldives

/ (ˈmɔːlˈdiːvz) /


pl n
  1. Republic of Maldives a republic occupying an archipelago of 1087 coral islands in the Indian Ocean, southwest of Sri Lanka: came under British protection in 1887; became independent in 1965 and a republic in 1968; a member of the Commonwealth. The economy and infrastructure were severely damaged in the Indian Ocean tsunami of December 2004. Official language: Divehi. Official religion: (Sunni) Muslim. Currency: rufiyaa. Capital: Malé. Pop: 393 988 (2013 est). Area: 298 sq km (115 sq miles): Also known as: the Maldive Islands

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