Negro
/ˈniːɡroʊ/noun
An outdated term historically used to describe a person of African descent.
Did you know?The term 'Negro' originated from the Latin word 'niger', meaning 'black', but its use has evolved dramatically, often reflecting societal racism and prejudice.
Etymological Timeline
Latin
Latin
niger
“Meaning 'black', used to describe skin color.”
16th Century
Spanish
negro
“Adopted from Latin, used to describe people of African descent.”
17th Century
English
Negro
“Introduced into English as a formal term for people of African ancestry.”
20th Century
English
Negro
“Used as a racial identifier, but increasingly seen as outdated and offensive.”
21st Century
English
Negro
“Regarded as an obsolete term, replaced by 'Black' and 'African American' in common use.”