Definition and meaning of English word "continent"
continent
/kənˈtɪnənt/
Meaning
NounOne of the main contiguous landmasses, separated by water or geological features, on the surface of a planet, sometimes including its continental shelves and the islands on them.
How to use
The term 'continent' is commonly used in geographical and geological contexts to refer to large, continuous areas of land. A notable nuance is that, grammatically, 'continent' can be used as a countable noun, and learners should be aware of the correct article usage, such as 'the continent of Africa' or 'Which continent do you live on?'
🇬🇧 English
continent
Example
The continent is home to many different cultures.
The continent is separated by an ocean.
Your personal vocabulary
🦊 Use this word in a live AI conversationSynonyms
Common phrases
- seven continents— the continents of the world
- continent-wide— extending across a continent
- off the continent— located away from the mainland
This concept in other languages
Frequency rank: #501 in English
Learn them all! 🚀
Master the 1000 most common English words with smart explanations, audio pronunciation, and spaced repetition.
Start Learning For Free →No sign-up required
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the English word "continent" mean?▼
The English word "continent" means "continent" in English.
How do you pronounce the English word "continent"?▼
You can hear the correct audio pronunciation of the word "continent" by clicking the play button next to the word at the top of this page.
Can I see an example sentence with "continent"?▼
Yes, here is a practical example: "The continent is home to many different cultures." (which translates as "continent").
More Places & Buildings words
Related reading
Duolingo vs Anki vs Apps: Comparing Language Learning Methods in 2026
An honest comparison of popular language learning approaches: gamified apps, SRS flashcards, textbooks, tutors, and immersion. Pros, cons, and who each is best for.
Read →MethodWhat Is Spaced Repetition? The SM-2 Algorithm Explained Simply
Spaced repetition is the single most effective method for memorizing vocabulary. Learn how the forgetting curve works, how the SM-2 algorithm calculates review intervals, and why 20 minutes a day beats 2 hours of cramming.
Read →