Amerika

Amerika is a term used in several languages to refer either to the American continents collectively or to the United States of America. In English, "America" often means the United States, while "the Americas" denotes North, Central, and South America. In many other languages the single word Amerika is commonly used for the continent or the country, with regional variations in emphasis and form.

Originating from the given name Amerigo Vespucci, the lands were named America after a 1507 map by Martin Waldseemüller that labeled the new territories with the Latin form Americus, the masculine form of Amerigo. The name subsequently spread to languages and political discourse, sometimes causing ambiguity between the United States and the wider Americas.

The Americas span two main landmasses and numerous islands, and host a wide array of cultures, languages, and ecosystems. The region includes roughly 35 sovereign states and many territories. Dominant languages include Spanish, Portuguese, English, French, and Dutch, alongside hundreds of indigenous languages. Major population centers include Mexico City, New York, São Paulo, Lima, and Bogotá.

European colonization began in the late 15th century and shaped the political and economic landscape of the region. Independence movements in the 18th and 19th centuries led to the creation of modern nations. Contemporary connections include economic blocs (for example, United States–Mexico–Canada Agreement and Mercosur), regional organizations, and cross-border migration and trade.

Usage of Amerika varies by language and country. It can refer neutrally to the Americas or to the United States, but in some contexts it may carry political or cultural connotations. Clear terms such as United States of America or the Americas are preferred when precision is required.