down under
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Puzzle #233 · January 20, 2026
Australia is called “Down Under” because of its location in the Southern Hemisphere, making it geographically “down below” most other countries from the perspective of European explorers and mapmakers who placed North at the top of their charts. The term highlights its position “under” the equator and far “down” the globe from the UK and Europe.
It has become a popular, affectionate nickname for the country, especially after being popularized by music in the 1980s.
It has become a popular, affectionate nickname for the country, especially after being popularized by music in the 1980s.
Puzzle Appearances
The expression down under has appeared in 1 puzzle:
- Puzzle #233 on January 20, 2026
Rate of Appearance in English Language Print
Google's Ngram project shows how often a pair of words has appeared in print every year since the 1800's.
Data from Google Books Ngram Viewer. Licensed under CC BY 3.0.
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