TEXEL, an island in the German Ocean, belonging to Holland, separated from the mainland by the Mars Diep, 2½ miles broad. It is about 14 miles long by 6 broad, and its surface is low, chiefly occupied by pasture ground, on which cattle and sheep of excellent breeds are reared. The people are chiefly employed in farming, fishing, boat-building, and acting as pilots. Off this island, in 1653, the English fleet, under Monk, defeated the Dutch, under Van Tromp, who lost his life in the action. Pop. 4924.