Thesaurus

Island group of about 100 islands northeast of the Orkneys; the principal islands are Mainland, Yell, Unst, and Fetlar; the chief town is Lerwick; island group and administrative region are coextensive; noted for mild climate and strong winds; economy is based on fishing, agriculture, and textiles; invaded by Norsemen in the 8th and 9th centuries who ruled island until the 15th century; became a part of Scotland in 1472; remained outside Scottish history and tradition; noted for the production of hand knitwear; in the late 20th century the island group became a base for the North Sea oil and gas industries: the oil terminal at Sullom Voe is the largest in Europe; tourism is now an important industry as well.