‖ terra incognita
(ˌtɛrə ɪnˈkɒgnɪtə)
Pl. terræ incognitæ (erron. terras incognitas).
[L., = ‘unknown land’.]
An unknown or unexplored region. Often fig.
| 1616 Capt. Smith Descr. New Eng. 6 The Spaniards know..not so much as the true circumference of Terra Incognita, whose large dominions may equalize the greatnesse and goodnes of America. 1630 J. Taylor (Water P.) Gt. Eater Kent Wks. i. 143/2 The place of his birth, and names of his parents are to me a meere Terra incognita. 1756 Lady M. W. Montagu Let. to C'tess of Bute 1 Apr., Your provinces of politics, gallantry, and literature, all [are] terra incognita. 1821 A. M. Porter Village of Mariendorpt II. 121 His friend and the field-marshall were nearly terras incognitas to each other. 1901 Scotsman 11 Mar. 6/4 The country within a day's ride..is almost a terra incognita. |