The term "archipelago" refers to a large group or chain of islands. These islands may vary in size and can be located in oceans, seas, or lakes. An archipelago can consist of hundreds or thousands of islands, and they may be formed through volcanic activity, erosion, or sedimentation. Well-known examples include the Malay Archipelago and the Hawaiian Islands. Archipelagos can have diverse ecosystems and can be significant for biodiversity and cultural history.