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Definition of tasman

tasman

/ˈtæz.mən/
Tas · man

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tasman Lexical Profile

• noun

1

A large marginal sea of the South Pacific Ocean situated between Australia and New Zealand, formally known as the Tasman Sea and colloquially referred to as 'the Tasman'.


2

New Zealand A unitary authority and geographic region located at the northern end of the South Island of New Zealand, known for its extensive national parks.

Example

"During their summer vacation, the tourists explored the coastal landscapes and vibrant wildlife of Tasman."


3

The Dutch explorer Abel Tasman (1603–1659), recognized as the first European explorer to map parts of Australia, New Zealand, and Fiji during his 1642 voyage.

Example

"Historical records indicate that Tasman originally named the island Anthoonij van Diemenslandt in honor of his sponsor."

Word Nuance & Usage

Almost exclusively capitalized as 'Tasman', the term primarily functions as a proper noun in geographical and historical contexts, serving as an eponymous identifier for the Tasman Sea, Tasmania, and the Tasman region of New Zealand.

Word Origin & Etymology

Named after Abel Janszoon Tasman (1603–1659), a Dutch seafarer and explorer who was the first known European to reach Van Diemen's Land (now Tasmania) and New Zealand.

Usage Trend

Historical frequency of usage in published text.

180019102020

Cite this Entry


Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Tasman. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/tasman
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