Eastern
ˈiːstərn
Definitions
2 meaningsSituated in or towards the east; of or belonging to the east or its people.
ˈiːstərn
Relating to or situated in the east
The eastern side of the island receives more rainfall.
💡 Simply: Imagine the direction the sun rises. Eastern means something is in that direction, or related to places far over that way, like China or Japan. For example, you might say, 'My friend is from an eastern country.'
👶 For kids: Being in the part of the world where the sun comes up.
More Examples
They traveled to the eastern provinces of the country.
The eastern wind brought cooler air.
How It's Used
"The eastern coast of the United States faces the Atlantic Ocean."
"Eastern cultures often emphasize collectivism."
Relating to the East, especially the eastern part of a region or country, the Eastern world (like the Eastern Mediterranean), and/or cultures associated with this location
ˈiːstərn
Of or relating to the geographical East
The company expanded its operations into the eastern market.
💡 Simply: Eastern refers to the East. It could be the eastern part of a town, country, or the whole of a large area of the world. Think of the sun coming up from over there!
👶 For kids: Belonging to or coming from the part of the world where the sun comes up.
More Examples
They are studying eastern religions.
The eastern states are experiencing a population boom.
How It's Used
"Eastern Europe has a rich history."
"Eastern Orthodox is a major branch of Christianity."
Idioms & expressions
Eastern Bloc
The former communist states of Eastern and Central Europe.
"After the fall of the Berlin Wall, the Eastern Bloc countries began to transition to democracy."
East meets West
When Eastern and Western cultures, ideas, or values come together.
"The exhibition was a vibrant display of when East meets West."
From Old English *ēastren* (adjective), derived from *ēast* ('east'), ultimately from Proto-Germanic *austaz- ('east, dawn'). The word has been in use since at least the early Middle English period.
The word 'eastern' has been in use since the Middle Ages, evolving from the Old English word for 'east'. Historically, it was often used to refer to the Byzantine Empire or regions beyond Europe.
Memory tip
Think of the rising sun—east! That's the location.
Word Origin
"Relating to the east."