Shetland

British  

/ ˈʃɛtlənd /

noun

1. Also called: Shetland Islands.  Official name (until 1974): Zetland.  a group of about 100 islands (fewer than 20 inhabited), off the N coast of Scotland, which constitute an island authority of Scotland: a Norse dependency from the 8th century until 1472; noted for the breeding of Shetland ponies, knitwear manufacturing, and fishing; oil-related industries. Administrative centre: Lerwick. Pop: 21 870 (2003 est). Area: 1426 sq km (550 sq miles)

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Example Sentences

Last year the then prime minister of the Faroes, Aksel Johannesen, told BBC News that Shetland could boost growth, revitalise island life and encourage population growth by emulating his country's tunnel network.

From BBC • Jun. 29, 2026

In drawing up its plans for tunnels, Shetland has taken inspiration from the neighbouring Atlantic archipelago 200 miles to the north west.

From BBC • Jun. 29, 2026

Sloan said the proposed project in Shetland was relatively straightforward from an engineering perspective.

From BBC • Jun. 29, 2026

A Met Office yellow warning for thunderstorms remains in force throughout Friday for all parts of Scotland except Shetland.

From BBC • Jun. 26, 2026

“Now, let’s begin . . .” An hour later, crestfallen, Ruby returned; Bloom was out back with his children, helping them feed hay bale flakes to their Shetland ponies.

From "The Milagro Beanfield War" by John Nichols