The name Antarctica comes from the Greek word antarktikos, which means “opposite to the Arctic.” The Arctic is the region around the North Pole, so Antarctica refers to the region around the South Pole. The term was first used in the early 2nd century by the Greek geographer Marinus of Tyre, but it became more widely known after the Roman author Hyginus used it in his writings.
In essence, Antarctica is the southernmost continent on Earth, and its name reflects its geographical position opposite to the Arctic. The continent is known for its extreme cold, vast ice sheets, and unique wildlife, making it one of the most fascinating places on our planet.