Tuvalu

[ too-vuh-loo, too-vah-loo ]
/ ˈtu vəˌlu, tuˈvɑ lu /

noun

a parliamentary state consisting of a group of islands in the central Pacific, S of the equator: a former British colony; gained independence 1978. 10 sq. mi. (26 sq. km). Capital: Funafuti.
Formerly Ellice Islands, Lagoon Islands.

OTHER WORDS FROM Tuvalu

Tu·va·lu·an, adjective, noun

British Dictionary definitions for tuvaluan (1 of 2)

Tuvaluan
/ (ˌtuːvəˈluːən) /

adjective

relating to, denoting, or characteristic of Tuvalu, its inhabitants, or their language

noun

a native or inhabitant of Tuvalu
the Austronesian language of Tuvalu

British Dictionary definitions for tuvaluan (2 of 2)

Tuvalu
/ (ˌtuːvəˈluː) /

noun

a country in the SW Pacific, comprising a group of nine coral islands: established as a British protectorate in 1892. From 1915 until 1975 the islands formed part of the British colony of the Gilbert and Ellice Islands; achieved full independence in 1978; a member of the Commonwealth (formerly a special member not represented at all meetings, until 2000). Languages: English and Tuvaluan. Religion: Christian majority. Currency: Australian dollar; Tuvalu dollars are also used. Capital: Funafuti. Pop: 10 698 (2013 est). Area: 26 sq km (10 sq miles) Former names: Lagoon Islands, Ellice Islands