London grew around a Roman settlement on the Thames.
She took the train to London for a meeting.
London signed the artwork in the lower corner.
Similar words
Westminster
British capital
the Big Smoke
place name
UK markets
the City
toponymic name
UK capital
British establishment
Meanings
Capital of the United Kingdom
noun
geography
neutral
The capital and largest city of the United Kingdom, standing on the River Thames in southeast England.
Examples
She took the train to London for a meeting.
London grew around a Roman settlement on the Thames.
The family spent three days visiting museums in London.
Many international routes connect through London airports.
The Thames runs through the heart of London.
Similar words
UK capital
British capital
the Big Smoke
Institutions or markets based in the city
noun
politics
neutral
The government, financial markets, media, or cultural establishment associated with the city, named by the place rather than by a specific body.
Examples
London reacted cautiously to the central bank's decision.
The statement from London changed the tone of the negotiations.
In fashion, London often sets a different mood from Paris or Milan.
Traders said London opened lower after the overnight news.
The scandal put pressure on London to respond quickly.
Similar words
the City
Westminster
UK markets
British establishment
Personal name from the place
noun
names
neutral
A surname or given name taken from the city name and used for a person.
Examples
London signed the artwork in the lower corner.
Their daughter London was named after the city.
Coach London praised the team after the match.
The article quoted Dr. London on the discovery.
London has become a recognizable place-inspired name.
Similar words
place name
toponymic name
Etymology
First recorded in Latinized form as Londinium. The deeper origin is uncertain, though it is usually treated as coming from an earlier Brittonic place name.
FAQ
What does London mean?
London most often means the capital and largest city of the United Kingdom, on the River Thames in southeast England.
Is London the capital of England or the United Kingdom?
London is the capital of both England and the United Kingdom.
Is London the same as the City of London?
No. The City of London is the small historic core and financial district within the wider city.
Where does the name London come from?
The name is first recorded as Londinium, and its deeper origin is uncertain.
Can London mean the government or financial markets?
Yes. In context, London can stand for institutions, markets, or cultural circles based in the city.
Can London be a personal name?
Yes. London is also used as a surname and as a given name taken from the place name.
What is Greater London?
Greater London is the wider administrative region that includes the City of London and 32 boroughs.
What was Roman London called?
Roman London was called Londinium.
Comments & contributions
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