Nigger: meaning, definitions and examples

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nigger

 

[ ˈnɪɡər ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

offensive term

This term is a deeply offensive racial slur historically used to demean and dehumanize black people. It is rooted in a history of racism and discrimination, originating from the Latin word 'niger' meaning black. Its usage is highly charged and can evoke painful memories of oppression and violence.

Examples of usage

  • He was subjected to verbal abuse including that slur.
  • The community protested against the use of the word in public discourse.
  • Many consider the term unacceptable in any context.

Translations

Translations of the word "nigger" in other languages:

🇵🇹 negro

🇮🇳 काला

🇩🇪 Schwarzer

🇮🇩 hitam

🇺🇦 чорний

🇵🇱 czarny

🇯🇵 黒人

🇫🇷 noir

🇪🇸 negro

🇹🇷 siyah

🇰🇷 흑인

🇸🇦 أسود

🇨🇿 černý

🇸🇰 čierny

🇨🇳 黑人

🇸🇮 črnec

🇮🇸 svartur

🇰🇿 қара

🇬🇪 შავი

🇦🇿 qara

🇲🇽 negro

Word origin

The word nigger has a complex and painful history, which dates back to its Latin roots. The Latin term 'niger', meaning black, was used in various contexts throughout history. However, during the transatlantic slave trade, the term evolved into a derogatory expression directed at Africans and people of African descent. It became closely associated with the systemic racism and dehumanization experienced by black individuals. Throughout the 19th and 20th centuries, it was used not only to denote race but also to reinforce stereotypes and justify discrimination. Its usage remains highly controversial and is considered one of the most offensive words in the English language today. Many advocate for eradicating the term from social and public discourse due to its association with hate, oppression, and a legacy of violence.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #17,209, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.