Manila

The word “Manila” means the capital city of the Philippines. In plain terms, either the Philippine capital, or the tan-colored paper and rope named after it.

“Manila” is pronounced muh-NIHL-uh (/məˈnɪl.ə/ in IPA).

Here is “Manila” used in a sentence: “They landed in Manila after a long flight from London.”

Depending on how it is used, “Manila” can be a name, an adjective and a noun.

The word “Manila” comes from Tagalog. Named after Manila, the Philippine city, whose own name comes from Tagalog words roughly meaning "where indigo grows.".

“Manila” is a fairly common word in modern English.

“Manila” has 3 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: the capital city of the Philippines.

Both spellings appear in English; 'Manila' is standard for the capital of the Philippines and is also widely used for the tan paper and fiber, while 'manilla' is a common variant for the paper and envelope sense. Usage varies, but 'manila folder' and 'manila envelope' are the more usual forms.

Manila describes a strong tan-colored paper originally made from manila fiber, which comes from the abaca plant. Envelopes and folders made from this durable material took the name, even where modern versions use other pulp.

Manila rope is made from manila fiber, a strong natural fiber obtained from the abaca plant. Its strength and resistance to saltwater made it popular for marine and heavy-duty uses.

Manila commonly refers to the pale tan or buff color of manila paper and folders. Strictly it names the material and its fiber, but the word is widely used to describe that light brown shade.