Ethnic

Definition

Ethnic refers to characteristics of a group of people who share a common cultural, racial, national, or linguistic identity. It is often used to describe aspects related to cultural traditions, customs, and heritage.

Parts of Speech

• Adjective
• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈɛθnɪk/
• Respelling: ETH-nik

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈɛθnɪk/
• Respelling: ETH-nik

The pronunciation of "ethnic" is consistent in both American and British English, with emphasis on the first syllable.

Etymology

The word "ethnic" comes from the Greek word "ethnikos," meaning "national" or "foreign." This term is derived from "ethnos," which means "nation" or "people."

Derivatives

• Ethnicity (noun)
• Ethnically (adverb)
• Ethnocentric (adjective)
• Ethnography (noun)
• Ethnogenesis (noun)

Synonyms

• Cultural
• Racial
• National

Antonyms

• Nonracial
• Universal
• Global

Usage

The word "ethnic" is often used to describe cultural practices, traditions, and identities that are specific to a particular group of people. It can refer to various aspects such as food, clothing, language, and social customs that are characteristic of a certain ethnic group.

Related Terms

• Ethnocentrism: The belief in the inherent superiority of one's own ethnic group or culture.
• Multiculturalism: The coexistence of diverse cultures within a community or society.
• Tribal: Relating to a group of people with a common ancestry and culture, often organized in tribes.

Detailed Definitions

Adjective

• Relating to a population subgroup with a common national or cultural tradition: Describes characteristics that are associated with a specific ethnic group.
  • Example: "The city is known for its diverse ethnic neighborhoods."
• Relating to a group of people sharing a common cultural, racial, or national identity: Refers to aspects that are specific to a particular ethnic group.
  • Example: "Ethnic foods from around the world are popular in many cities."

Noun

• A person belonging to a particular ethnic group: Refers to an individual who identifies with a specific cultural, racial, or national group.
  • Example: "The festival celebrated the contributions of various ethnics to the community."