The name "Australia" originates from the Latin term "Terra Australis," meaning "southern land." This name was used to describe a hypothetical continent in the Southern Hemisphere since ancient times. The explorer Matthew Flinders popularized the name "Australia" in his 1804 chart, and it officially replaced "New Holland" in 1817. The name is important because it reflects the country's geographical position and its rich history of exploration and discovery. Over time, the use of the name has become synonymous with Australian culture and identity.
