Niger
/ˈnaɪ.dʒər/noun
A country in West Africa.
Did you know?The name 'Niger' is derived from the Latin word 'niger', which translates to 'black', historically referring to the dark waters of the river.
Etymological Timeline
Latin
Latin
niger
“Black; a descriptor for dark colors, often applied to rivers or land.”
Medieval Latin
Medieval Latin
Niger
“Used to refer to the Niger River, emphasizing its dark waters.”
16th Century
Early Modern English
Niger
“Adoption of the name for the river into English usage.”
19th Century
English
Niger
“Officially used to name the territory, reflecting colonial influence.”