English · Word Candidate

continental

/ˌkɑntɪˈnɛntl̩/

Proposed by a contributor, not yet supported by evidence.

Also seen as: continentals

Sense 1

Meaning · English

Of or relating to a continent or continents.

Adjective

Examples

continental drift

Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Sense 2

Meaning · English

Of the mainland, as opposed to an island offshore.

Adjective

Examples

continental Europe

Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Sense 3

Meaning · English

Someone from the continent.

Noun

Examples

Reflecting on his long career chronicling scientists, J. G. Crowther wondered why it was that in the grand debates over the nature of light, x-rays, and cathode rays, the British opted for particles and the continentals for waves.

Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Sense 4

Meaning · English

A member of the Continental army.

NounRegister: US

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Common questions

What does “continental” mean?

Of or relating to a continent or continents.

Is “continental” formal or informal?

No register label has been reviewed yet — treat it as neutral and check the usage notes above.