Britannica Sources used in this answer

What does the name Vanuatu mean in Melanesian languages?

Created from Britannica articles using AI. AI can make mistakes, so verify using Britannica articles.

The name Vanuatu means "Our Land Forever" in many of the Melanesian languages spoken throughout the country.1

Formerly known as the New Hebrides, the nation adopted its current name upon achieving independence in 1980.1