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Glite Dictionary
Trinidad and Tobago

Trinidad and Tobago

2.0
A country of two islands in the Caribbean near Venezuela
  • proper noun
  • /ˈtrɪnɪdæd ənd təˈbeɪɡoʊ/
translation icon : Trinidad y Tobago
  • Located just off the northeastern coast of Venezuela, Trinidad and Tobago is known for its rich biodiversity.

Examples

  • Tourists are drawn to Trinidad and Tobago for its vibrant festivals and beautiful beaches.

  • The vibrant celebrations during Carnival in Trinidad and Tobago attract visitors from all over the world.

  • After gaining independence in 1962, Trinidad and Tobago developed a strong cultural identity.

  • The cuisine of Trinidad and Tobago reflects its diverse ethnic background.

  • I visited Trinidad and Tobago last summer.

  • Have you ever been to Trinidad and Tobago?

  • Many people dream of exploring the stunning landscapes and coral reefs of Trinidad and Tobago.

Synonyms

Republic of Trinidad and Tobago
vsTrinidad and Tobago
3.5

A country of two islands in the southern Caribbean near Venezuela

is the general geographic description without political independence detail

Surface Forms

Trinidad and Tobago main

Morphology

Trinidad + and + Tobago

The name is compositionally built from two known place names joined by 'and', so a learner who knows 'Trinidad', 'Tobago', and the coordinating conjunction 'and' can infer it refers to the two islands taken together as a single entity/country. The X-and-Y naming pattern for joint political/geographic entities is common across languages, making the meaning immediately derivable for B1 learners.

Etymology

Trinidad and Tobago comes from the two main islands that make the country. One popular story says the explorer Christopher Columbus named Trinidad after the 'Trinity' because he saw three hills, and Tobago may come from the word 'tobacco' because early visitors found tobacco plants there. So the country's name simply lists its two islands.