Maldives

American  

[mawl-deevz, mal-dahyvz] / ˈmɔl divz, ˈmæl daɪvz /

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). Male.

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Maldives British  

/ ˈmɔːlˈdiːvz /

plural noun

1. Also known as: the Maldive Islands.  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)

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Other Word Forms

• Maldivian adjective

Example Sentences

Jepson estimates an all-inclusive, seven-night package for a couple in what she's heard referred to as the "Maldives of Europe" would cost about £1,400.

From BBC • Apr. 18, 2026

Muizzu's office said the Maldives was reviewing these legal judgements.

From BBC • Mar. 27, 2026

The Maldives and Nepal are rationing the supply of liquefied petroleum gas—popular for cooking—urging households to switch to electric stoves.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 20, 2026

They vacationed together in the Maldives, some of the people familiar with his operations said.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 19, 2026

I received the postcard from the Maldives last week.

From "South of Somewhere" by Kalena Miller