Atlantis - A mythical continent or island believed to have existed in ancient times, stretching from Central America and Mexico far into the Atlantic Ocean.  Before recorded history this island is supposed to have sunk into the ocean; the Canaries, Madeiras, and Azores being the only parts which did not disappear.  Those who hold to the theory of Atlantis claim the American Indians were among those who survived when Atlantis sank.  The Atlantic Ocean was not named for the lost continent of Atlantis, but for the Atlas Mountains in North Africa.