Madagascar

[mad-uh-gas-ker]

noun

1. an island republic in the Indian Ocean, about 240 miles (385 km) off the southestern coast of Africa: formerly a French colony; gained independence 1960. 227,800 sq. mi. (590,000 sq. km). Antananarivo.

Madagascar

/ ˌmædəˈɡæskə /

noun

1. Official name (since 1975): Democratic Republic of Madagascar. Former name (1958–75): Malagasy Republic. an island republic in the Indian Ocean, off the E coast of Africa: made a French protectorate in 1895; became autonomous in 1958 and fully independent in 1960; contains unique flora and fauna. Languages: Malagasy and French. Religions: animist and Christian. Currency: franc. Capital: Antananarivo. Pop: 22 599 098 (2013 est). Area: 587 041 sq km (266 657 sq miles)

Madagascar

1. Island republic in the Indian Ocean off the southeastern coast of Africa. Its capital and largest city is Antananarivo.

Madagascar was under French control from the late nineteenth century until 1960, when it gained full independence. Its culture mixes European, African, and South Asian influences.

The island of Madagascar is the fourth largest in the world.

Other Word Forms

• anti-Madagascan adjective
• Madagascan noun
• pro-Madagascan adjective

Example Sentences

The office of Madagascar's President Andry Rajoelina has said an attempt to seize power illegally and unconstitutionally is under way in the country.

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Madagascar's President Andry Rajoelina on Sunday said an "attempt to seize power illegally and by force" was underway, a day after a contingent of soldiers joined thousands of anti-government protesters in the capital Antananarivo.

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"There is a positive sign of change but perhaps not strong enough to bring young people out onto the streets, as we saw in Madagascar, Tunisia and elsewhere."

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A Madagascar army contingent near the capital on Saturday called on soldiers and security units to "join forces" and "refuse orders to shoot" at protesters, while several thousand marched in the capital.

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Madagascar's security forces on Friday said they had taken "strict measures" as they claimed the protesters aimed to "terrorise the population" and "incite looting".

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