East Asia

American  

[eest ey-zhuh, ey-shuh] / ˈist ˈeɪ ʒə, ˈeɪ ʃə /

noun

1. the countries and land area of easternmost Asia, most commonly classified as comprising China, Mongolia, North Korea, South Korea, Japan, Taiwan, Hong Kong, and Macao.

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Other Word Forms

• East Asian
  adjective

Etymology

Origin of East Asia

First recorded in 1875–80

Example Sentences

Already reeling from the effects of conflict in the Middle East, Asia is now facing the prospect of strong El Nino conditions that could spike energy demand, sap hydropower, and damage crops.

From Barron's • May 5, 2026

More than 70% of Chinese firms operating in South East Asia plan further expansion, according to market research firm Euromonitor International.

From BBC • Apr. 21, 2026

There are also anxieties across South East Asia, which has been hit hard by soaring oil prices.

From BBC • Apr. 16, 2026

Joro spiders have been spotted across the U.S., including in California, having ventured to the country via shipping containers from East Asia.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 10, 2026

Hence the history of China offers the key to the history of all of East Asia.

From "Guns, Germs, and Steel: The Fates of Human Societies" by Jared M. Diamond