Caspian Basin
/ˈkæs.pi.ən ˈbeɪ.sən/noun
A large geological depression surrounding and including the Caspian Sea, extending across parts of Eastern Europe and Central Asia.
Did you know?The name Caspian comes from the ancient Caspi people, mentioned by Greek and Roman writers, although their precise language and origins remain uncertain.
Etymological Timeline
1st Millennium BCE
Ancient Greek
Kaspía thálassa
“The Caspian Sea, named for the Caspi people”
1st Century BCE–1st Century CE
Latin
Caspium mare
“The Caspian Sea in Roman geographical writing”
13th Century
Old French
bacin
“A shallow vessel, bowl, or basin”
14th Century
Middle English
bacin
“A basin or washbowl”
19th Century
English
Caspian Basin
“The geological basin associated with the Caspian Sea”
Modern English
English
Caspian Basin
“A major sedimentary and geographical region surrounding the Caspian Sea”