Immigrant Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

Historical Origins

• The term 'immigrant' derives from the Latin word 'immigrare', which means 'to move into' a land.
• Mass migrations throughout history have shaped nations, such as the Great Migration of African Americans in the 20th century seeking better opportunities.
• During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the United States saw millions of immigrants arriving at Ellis Island, where they processed to enter.

Cultural Impact

• Immigrants have significantly influenced culture, bringing their traditions, cuisines, and languages, enriching the local community.
• The fusion of diverse cultural backgrounds often leads to new art forms and music styles, such as jazz, which has roots in African American immigrant communities.
• Stories of immigrants often highlight themes of resilience and hope, celebrated in literature and film through narratives of adaptation and achievement.

Legal Aspects

• Many countries have specific immigration laws that determine who can enter, stay, and work, often requiring visas or residency permits.
• As global mobility increases, there are ongoing debates about immigration policies and their impacts on labor markets and national identity.
• Refugees and asylum seekers are often included under the broader immigrant category, as they flee from danger or persecution in their home countries.

Economic Contributions

• Immigrants play a crucial role in economies, often filling important job gaps in sectors like technology, healthcare, and agriculture.
• Research indicates that immigrants contribute significantly to innovation and entrepreneurship, founding many successful startups.
• Despite common misconceptions, studies show that immigrants often add to the economy by paying taxes and creating job opportunities for others.

Social Perspectives

• Public opinion on immigrants can be polarized, with some viewing them as positive contributors while others may have concerns about cultural integration.
• Community programs often aim to support immigrants through language classes and cultural exchanges, fostering understanding and collaboration.
• The portrayal of immigrants in media plays a vital role in shaping societal attitudes, often emphasizing personal stories of struggle and triumph.

The word 'immigrant' dates back to the mid-18th century, derived from the Latin word 'immigrare' which means 'to remove.' The term became widely used in the context of migration and settling in a new country during the 19th and 20th centuries, especially with the increase in global migration patterns.

See also: migrants.

At #7,181 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.

• ...
• 7178 ambiguous
• 7179 matches
• 7180 diary
• 7181 immigrant
• 7182 beta
• 7183 broadcasting
• 7184 contradictory
• ...