Aussie: meaning, definitions and examples

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Aussie

 

[ ˈɔː.zi ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

informal, nationality

Aussie is an informal term used to refer to an Australian person. It can be used affectionately and is often seen as a term of endearment among Australians themselves.

Synonyms

Australian, Ozzie

Examples of usage

  • He's an Aussie who loves surfing.
  • I met a few Aussies while traveling in Europe.
  • The Aussie accent is quite distinctive.
  • Many Aussies enjoy the outdoors.

Word origin

The term 'Aussie' originates from the word 'Australia', which is derived from the Latin term 'Australis', meaning 'southern'. The first recorded use of 'Aussie' in Australian English dates back to the early 20th century, particularly around World War I. During this time, the term began to gain popularity and was used commonly among Australian soldiers and civilians alike. The diminutive form reflects Australian culture's affinity for nicknames and colloquial terms. By the mid-20th century, 'Aussie' had become a widely accepted term of endearment for Australians, representing both national pride and a friendly, laid-back attitude that characterizes much of Australian culture. Today, the term is embraced globally, symbolizing a sense of identity and camaraderie among Australians wherever they are.