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Glite Dictionary
Basutoland

Basutoland

9.9
The old name for Lesotho, a country in southern Africa
  • proper noun
translation icon : Basutoland
  • During the colonial period, Basutoland was a British protectorate in southern Africa.

Examples

  • After achieving independence, Basutoland was renamed Lesotho in 1966.

  • Basutoland was known for its stunning mountain landscapes.

  • The mountainous landscape of Basutoland made it difficult for foreign powers to invade.

  • Did you know that Basutoland became Lesotho in 1966?

  • After years of struggle, Basutoland became independent and was renamed Lesotho in 1966.

  • Many tourists visit Basutoland to experience its rich culture and stunning landscapes.

  • The history of Basutoland is intertwined with the legacy of the Basotho people.

Synonyms

Lesotho
vsBasutoland
4 6.0

A landlocked country in southern Africa that has been an independent constitutional monarchy since 1966

is the earlier name used before 1966 independence
Kingdom of Lesotho
vsBasutoland
6.0

A country in southern Africa that is entirely surrounded by South Africa

is the historic name replaced by the formal country title after 1966

Surface Forms

Basutoland main

Morphology

Basutoland = Basuto + land (transparent) = Basuto + land

Formed as a straightforward compound meaning 'the land of the Basuto'; if a learner knows the components, the territorial sense follows directly.

Etymology

The word Basutoland comes from Basuto, an old name for the Sotho people, plus the English part -land, which means 'land of'. So Basutoland simply meant 'land of the Basuto' and was the old name for the country now called Lesotho.