Great Britain is a term that is often used to describe the United Kingdom, which comprises of England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland. Synonyms for Great Britain include Britain, the UK, the British Isles, and Albion. Britain, which refers specifically to England and Wales, is used interchangeably with Great Britain. The UK is the official name of the country and is used more frequently in official documents and political discussions. The term British Isles includes Great Britain and Ireland, as well as smaller surrounding islands. Albion is an archaic name for Great Britain, derived from the Celtic word for white, due to the white cliffs of Dover.