What Are People From Timor-Leste Called?

Southeast Asia, Timor-Leste

The demonym for people from Timor-Leste is:

Timorese

Pronunciation:

/ˌtiːməˈriːz/

Ends in -ese — see how this suffix works

Sprachen Osttimors-en
Image via Wikimedia CommonsCC BY-SA 3.0

About Timor-Leste

Timor-Leste, also known as East Timor, is a Southeast Asian nation that occupies the eastern half of the island of Timor. Its capital city is Dili, a coastal city set against a backdrop of mountains and the Banda Sea. Timor-Leste is the youngest nation in Southeast Asia, having become independent in 2002 after a long struggle for self-determination. The population is predominantly Roman Catholic, reflecting centuries of Portuguese colonial influence on its culture and traditions. The country is a developing economy that relies heavily on oil and gas resources, particularly from offshore fields in the surrounding seas. Visitors are drawn to its mountainous interior, coffee plantations, and historic sites that tell the story of its journey toward independence. Its name, Timor-Leste, comes from the Portuguese word for east.

Quick Facts about Timor-Leste
Population:
1,360,596 (2024 est.)
Country:
Timor-Leste
Region:
Southeast Asia

Recommended Geography Resources

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Etymology of the Timor-Leste Demonym

From Malay 'timur' meaning 'east'. Also known as East Timor. 'Timorese' is the demonym.

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