Why is the island melita now called Malta?

The name "Malta" is derived from the Ancient Greek word Μελίτη (Melitē), meaning "honey". The island was known as Melita by the Romans, and this name was later adopted by the Arabs, who called it مالطة (Mālṭah). The name "Malta" was first used in English in the 16th century.

The island was originally called Melita by the Phoenicians, who were the first people to settle there. The name is thought to be derived from the Phoenician word for "honey", as the island was known for its honey production. The Greeks later adopted the name Melita, and the Romans used the Latin form of the name, Melita.

The Arabs conquered Malta in the 9th century, and they called the island مالطة (Mālṭah). The name "Malta" was first used in English in the 16th century, and it has been the official name of the island ever since.

The island is still sometimes called Melita in poetry and literature, but the name "Malta" is more commonly used.