1. plural of mainland; the principal landmasses of continents as distinguished from islands

Examples

• The ferry connects several islands to their respective mainlands.
• Many island nations depend on trade with the mainlands for essential goods.
• The storm prevented travel between the islands and the mainlands.
• Wildlife migration patterns often involve movement between islands and mainlands.
• The mainlands of Asia and Europe are connected by land bridges.
• Shipping routes link the mainlands of different continents.