Wop
/wɑp/noun
A derogatory term used to refer to Italian immigrants or people of Italian descent.
Did you know?The term 'wop' is believed to have originated from the Italian phrase 'guappo', meaning a swaggering man or a braggart, reflecting a stereotype rather than a genuine connection to Italian culture.
Etymological Timeline
19th Century
English
wop
“A pejorative term for Italian immigrants, used to denote cultural difference and perceived inferiority.”
Italian
Italian
guappo
“A term meaning 'swaggering man' or 'braggart', originally reflecting a certain bravado.”
Late 19th Century
English
wop
“Adaptation of 'guappo' in American English, used derogatorily in the context of Italian Americans.”
20th Century
English
wop
“Continued use as a racial slur in American vernacular, further entrenching negative stereotypes.”