Ethnic: meaning, definitions and examples

Describing groups of people with common ancestry, language, or cultural heritage.

• The city hosts a variety of ethnic festivals.
• Ethnic diversity can lead to a rich cultural environment.

Relating to the arts, customs, lifestyles, background, and habits that characterize a particular society or nation.

• She is studying the cultural differences between European countries.
• Cultural events often include music, dance, and traditional foods.

Pertaining to race, often used in contexts involving social issues, discrimination, and identity. This word can sometimes have a negative connotation when discussing sensitive topics.

• The racial tension in the area has been a significant issue.
• Racial equality is a fundamental human right.

Linked to customs, beliefs, or practices that are handed down from one generation to another within a particular group or society.

• The family follows traditional holiday celebrations.
• They wore traditional attire during the ceremony.

Use when referring to a group of people who share a common cultural background, language, or heritage. Often used in social sciences and discussions about diversity.

• The city is known for its ethnic diversity.
• She wore a traditional ethnic dress during the festival.

Used to describe someone who was born in a particular place or is originally from that location. Can also refer to indigenous people.

• She is a native New Yorker.
• The native plants of this region are very diverse.

Refers to a male member of a tribe. Often used in discussions about indigenous cultures or communities. Note that it has a male-specific implication.

• The tribesman hunted for food in the forest.
• He spoke about the history of his people as a proud tribesman.

Appropriate when discussing someone who is a direct lineage from an ancestor, often used in genealogical or historical contexts.

• He is a descendant of a famous explorer.
• The museum holds artifacts from descendants of indigenous peoples.