Continental describes something relating to a continent, one of Earth's seven huge landmasses: Africa, Antarctica, Asia, Australia, Europe, North America, and South America.

When geologists talk about continental drift, they mean the slow movement of these massive land plates across Earth's surface over millions of years. The continental United States refers to the lower 48 states that form one connected landmass, excluding Alaska and Hawaii. A continental breakfast traditionally meant the lighter morning meals common in mainland Europe, as opposed to the heartier English or American breakfast with eggs and bacon.

In history, you might read about the Continental Army that George Washington led during the American Revolution, named because it represented all thirteen colonies rather than just one colony's militia. The Continental Congress was the group of representatives from those colonies who met to govern during the Revolution.

The word can also mean sophisticated in a European style. Someone might describe a restaurant as having continental flair if it serves European-style food with elegant presentation.