peninsula

noun

pen·​in·​su·​la pə-ˈnin(t)-s(ə-)lə  -shə-lə 

: a portion of land nearly surrounded by water and connected with a larger body by an isthmus

also : a piece of land jutting out into the water whether with or without a well-defined isthmus

the Italian peninsula

peninsular

pə-ˈnin(t)-s(ə-)lər 

-shə-lər

adjective

Synonyms of peninsula

• cape
• point
• headland

Examples of peninsula in a Sentence

They built their house on a narrow peninsula.

the peninsula is constantly buffeted by storms

Recent Examples on the Web

So, for creating Hope's Corner to bring nourishment and support to the peninsula's unhoused, this week's CBS News Bay Area ICON Award goes to Bob Lee and Leslie Carmichael. —Sharon Chin, CBS News, 11 June 2026

The awe-inspiring scenery includes the Perry Monument, beaches and sunsets, the Tom Ridge Environmental Center, historic lighthouses, trails and the wildlife‑rich lagoons that define the peninsula. —Usa Today Network, USA Today, 10 June 2026

Where to Stay Lagonissi Grand Resort, on a 72-acre private peninsula with a wide range of amenities, like in-room gyms, private pools, and picturesque seaside views. —Aileen Weintraub, Travel + Leisure, 10 June 2026

Newport, Rhode Island On this breath-taking peninsula overlooking Narragansett Bay, Castle Hill Inn is a definitive choice for solace, if for no other reason that waking up to the dramatic view each morning. —Judith Garrison, AJC.com, 9 June 2026

Word History

Etymology

Latin paeninsula, from paene almost + insula island

First Known Use

circa 1552, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for peninsula

• insole
• insula

Kids Definition

peninsula

noun

pen·​in·​su·​la pə-ˈnin(t)-s(ə-)lə  -ˈnin-chə-lə 

: a piece of land nearly surrounded by water or sticking out into the water

peninsular

-s(ə-)lər 

-chə-lər

adjective

Etymology

from Latin paeninsula "peninsula," from paene- "almost" and insula "island" — related to insulate, isle, isolate