Eurocentric
/ˌjʊəroʊˈsɛntrɪk/noun
Centered on or giving primary importance to Europe or European people, culture, and history.
Did you know?Eurocentric is a modern political and cultural term built from Greek roots meaning “center,” but unlike words such as “disaster” or “nightmare,” its dark power comes from ideology: it names the habit of making one civilization the default lens for everyone else.
Etymological Timeline
Ancient Greek
Greek
kéntron
“A center point; also a sharp point or sting used to prod animals.”
Late Greek
Greek
kentrikós
“Pertaining to a center; central.”
19th Century
French/English
européen / European
“Relating to Europe.”
20th Century
English
Euro-
“A combining form meaning Europe or European.”
20th Century
English
Eurocentric
“Centered on Europe; treating European culture as the norm or standard.”
Explore more surprising origins