Martha's Vineyard

English

Etymology

This was originally the name given to a smaller island to the south by the English explorer Bartholomew Gosnold, who sailed to the island in 1602. The island is thought to have been named after Gosnold's mother-in-law or his daughter, both named Martha.

Proper noun

Martha 's Vineyard

An island in Dukes County, Massachusetts, famous for once being home to one of the earliest known deaf communities.

Usage notes

Although the island's name does not include island or synonyms, on is used, as in "I live on Martha's Vineyard".
Chappaquiddick Island may or may not be considered part of Martha's Vineyard, depending on the level of linguistic specificity. Chappaquiddick and the main part of the Vineyard are usually connected by land via the narrow Norton Point, but breaches due to storm surges occasionally separate the two.

Derived terms

Martha's Vineyard Sign Language