Libya
geographical nameLib·ya | \ ˈli-bē-ə 
\
\Definition of Libya
1 the part of Africa north of the Sahara between Egypt and Syrtis Major (the Gulf of Sidra)
—an ancient name
2 northern Africa west of Egypt
—an ancient name
3 country in northern Africa bordering on the Mediterranean Sea, but largely desert; a colony of Italy 1912–43, an independent kingdom 1951–69, a republic since 1969; capital Tripoli area 679,362 square miles (1,759,540 square kilometers), population 6,755,000 — see also libyan
Comments on Libya
What made you want to look up Libya? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).
Test Your Vocabulary
Words of Snow and Ice Quiz
- Which of the following refers to thin, bending ice, or to the act of running over such ice?
Test your knowledge - and maybe learn something along the way.
TAKE THE QUIZ
Anagram puzzles meet word search.
TAKE THE QUIZLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridgedWords at Play
Ask the Editors
Word Games
- Words of Snow and Ice Quiz
A selection of words from the chillier parts of t...
Take the quiz - Name that Thing: Toys and Games Edition
It's all fun and games until someone beats your h...
Take the quiz - True or False?
Test your knowledge - and maybe learn something a...
Take the quiz - SCRABBLE® Sprint
SCRABBLE® fans, sharpen your skills!
Play the game
Share Libya