Cyprus

[ sahy-pruhs ]

noun

1. an island republic in the Mediterranean, south of Turkey: formerly a British colony; independent since 1960. 3,572 sq. mi. (9,250 sq. km). : Nicosia.

Cyprus

/ ˈsaɪprəs /

noun

1. an island in the E Mediterranean: ceded to Britain by Turkey in 1878 and made a colony in 1925; became an independent republic in 1960 as a member of the Commonwealth; invaded by Turkey in 1974 following a Greek-supported military coup, leading to the partition of the island. In 1983 the Turkish-controlled northern sector declared itself to be an independent state as the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus but failed to receive international recognition. Attempts by the UN to broker a reunification agreement have failed. Cyprus joined the EU in 2004. The UK maintains two enclaves as military bases (Akrotiri and Dhekelia Sovereign Base Areas), which are not included in Cyprus politically. Languages: Greek and Turkish. Religions: Greek Orthodox and Muslim. Currency: euro and Turkish lira. Capital: Nicosia. Pop (Greek): 838 897 (2011 est); (Turkish): 265 100 (2006 est). Area: 9251 sq km (3571 sq miles)

Cyprus

1. Island republic in the eastern Mediterranean Sea , south of Turkey and west of Syria . Nicosia is its capital and largest city.

Notes

People of Greek origin make up four-fifths of the population, and those of Turkish origin compose the other fifth. Conflict between the two led to a Turkish invasion that divided the island in the 1970s.

Other Words From

• an·ti-Cy·prus adjective
• pro-Cy·prus adjective

Example Sentences

We met protesters from as far away as Norway, Cyprus and Poland.

From BBC

Auctioneer Lewis Rabett said the Mercedes was bought while the man was serving with the British Army in Germany, and travelled with him during his military career in Cyprus and the Middle East.

From BBC

His lies follow a familiar pattern: A distinguished army career, villa in Cyprus, working strange hours to allow him space to cultivate multiple relationships at the same time.

From BBC

He saw active service in Northern Ireland, served in a peacekeeping mission in Cyprus, and as a liaison officer in the Gulf War.

From BBC

Growing up in Cyprus, Elena felt she was different to other girls - she liked maths, biology, and preferred wearing trousers rather than skirts.

From BBC