Why Sri Lanka Was Known as Serendib

Historical Names

Ancient Greeks and Romans referred to Sri Lanka as "Taprobane" or "Serendib." The name "Serendib" derives from the Sanskrit Siṃhaladvīpa ("Island of the Sinhalese"). Arab and Persian traders later adopted "Serendib."

Modern Name

The current name "Sri Lanka" comes from the Sanskrit Śrī Laṅkā, meaning "Resplendent Island." It was officially adopted in 1972 when the country became a republic.