Azores, a zorz', or Western Islands, a group of islands belonging to Portugal, in the North Atlantic Ocean. They are nine in number and form three distinct groups: the northwest, consisting of Flores and Corvo; the central, consisting of Terceira, Sao Jorge, Pico, Fayal and Graciosa; and the southeast, consisting of Sao Miguel (Saint Michael) and Santa Maria. Sao Miguel, Pico and Terceira are the largest. The islands are volcanic and subject to earthquakes, and are conical, lofty, precipitous and picturesque. The most remarkable summit is the peak of Pico, about 7600 feet high. There are numerous hot springs. The Azores are covered with luxuriant vegetation, and have many different woods, besides corn-fields, vineyards, lemon and orange groves and rich open pastures. The mild and somewhat humid climate, combined with the natural fertility of the soil, brings all kinds of vegetable products rapidly to perfection. The prosperity of these islands is hindered by the lack of good harbors. The Azores were discovered by Cabral about 1431, shortly after which date they were taken possession of and colonized by the Portuguese. When first visited they were uninhabited, and had scarcely any animals except birds, particularly hawks, called in Portuguese acores, to which the islands owe their name. Population, 256,475.