a republic comprising a group of islands in the W Pacific, in the W Caroline Islands; administratively part of the UN Trust Territory of the Pacific Islands 1947–87; entered into an agreement of free association with the US (1980); became fully independent in 1994. Official languages: Palauan and English; Sonsorolese and Tobian are also spoken. Religion: Christian majority. Currency: US dollar. Capital: Ngerulmud on Babelthuap (functions moved from Koror in 2006). Pop: 21 729(2017 est). Area: 476 sq km (184 sq miles)