Niggaz Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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niggaz

[หˆnษชษกษ™z ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

offensive term

The term 'niggaz' is a variation of the highly offensive and derogatory word 'nigger', which has been historically used to demean and dehumanize Black individuals. Its use is contentious and can evoke strong emotional responses, being considered a racial slur. While some members of the African American community have attempted to reclaim the term, using it among themselves in a different context, its usage by others is often viewed as deeply disrespectful and racist. It underscores the complexities of race, language, and identity in society.

Synonyms

black person (derogatory), nigger.

Examples of usage

  • He used the term in a derogatory manner.
  • The song features that word prominently.
  • Some people aim to reclaim the term from its negative connotation.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Cultural Impact

  • The word has been widely used in hip-hop and rap music, often to convey themes of struggle and community.
  • Controversies often arise around its use, particularly when non-African Americans use it, due to the profound historical context.
  • Some artists have sought to reclaim the term, sparking discussions about race, identity, and language.

Social Context

  • In many discussions about race and culture, language plays a crucial role in shaping identity and community.
  • The term can foster both unity and division, depending on who uses it and in what context.
  • Discussions surrounding the word often involve broader conversations about racism and social justice.

Psychology

  • Language can significantly influence social identity and how individuals perceive themselves and others.
  • In-group language can create a sense of belonging but may also lead to exclusion and misunderstandings with outsiders.
  • The emotional weight of this word can evoke strong feelings related to historical oppression and personal experience.

Legal Use

  • In some legal contexts, the use of derogatory language can lead to hate crime charges, reflecting its societal impact.
  • Discussions around this word have appeared in court cases regarding freedom of speech and hate speech in America.
  • Legal definitions often fail to capture the cultural and emotional nuances that words like this hold.

Origin of 'niggaz'

Main points about word origin

  • The word derives from a derogatory term historically used to demean and dehumanize people of African descent.
  • In the 20th century, it was reappropriated by some African American communities as a term of endearment or camaraderie.
  • Its spelling variations reflect cultural differences and the evolution of language within marginalized groups.

The word 'nigger' is derived from the Latin word 'niger', meaning black. It emerged in the 16th century as a neutral term to refer to people of African descent. Over time, particularly in the United States, it became a derogatory term used to demean Black individuals, reflecting the systemic racism and oppression faced by the African American community. The evolution of the term 'nigger' into variations like 'niggaz' illustrates attempts at linguistic reclamation, where some in the Black community have sought to subvert its negative connotations by using it within their social circles. However, the term remains highly controversial and its use by non-Black individuals is generally condemned, illustrating the complexities of race and power dynamics in language.