islet

[ahy-lit]

noun

1. a very small island.

adjective

1. Anatomy.,  situated in or pertaining to the islet of Langerhans.

   islet cells.

islet

/ ˈaɪlɪt /

noun

1. a small island

Other Word Forms

• isleted adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of islet¹

From the Middle French word islette, dating back to 1530–40. See isle, -et

Word History and Origins

Origin of islet¹

C16: from Old French islette; see _isle

Example Sentences

It targeted poor countries, emerging economies and tiny irrelevant islets based on that data.

From BBC

The new approach could be used to stop the body from rejecting transplanted organs and tissues, such as pancreatic islet cells, which are sometimes used to treat type 1 diabetes.

From Science Daily

For now, some patients with poorly controlled T1D may consider islet cell transplantation using beta cells from a donor.

From Science Daily

Marcos, whose country has had escalating clashes with China over disputed islets in the South China Sea, bluntly underscored the dangers of the regional flashpoint Friday at the defense forum.

From Seattle Times

Muizzu’s election sharpened their rivalry as he took a pro-China stand and acted to remove Indian troops stationed on one of Maldives’ islets.

From Seattle Times

Related Words

• archipelago 
• enclave 
• isle 
• peninsula 
• reef