Negro

Historically, the term 'negro' was used to describe individuals of African descent, particularly during the 19th and early 20th centuries. It originated in the Spanish and Portuguese languages, meaning black, and was widely adopted in various contexts, including academia, literature, and civil rights movements. However, the term has fallen out of favor due to its historical associations with racism and segregation. Today, it is often considered outdated and potentially offensive. Contemporary terminology generally favors 'Black' or 'African American.'

Negro meaning with examples

• In historical texts, the term 'negro' is often found in discussions about the civil rights movement, illustrating the struggles faced by the African American community during that era. Scholars analyze literature from that time, pointing to how the word was used to both empower and oppress. However, current scholarly work emphasizes the importance of using language that reflects the dignity and humanity of individuals, moving away from outdated terminology.
• The educational curriculum once included the works of prominent 'negro' authors, such as Langston Hughes and Zora Neale Hurston, whose contributions were essential to the Harlem Renaissance. In this context, the term is viewed as a historical reference, teaching students about the past while encouraging them to understand the evolution of language and identity in America. The legacy of these authors remains invaluable as they shaped cultural narratives and social movements.
• In the early 20th century, census data classified individuals as 'negro' for demographic purposes, reflecting societal views of race at the time. While this classification was used to collect social and economic statistics, modern practices have shifted to more sensitive and accurate descriptors that honor individuals’ identities. This change highlights the importance of evolving language to match contemporary understandings of race and equality.
• Many organizations aimed at social justice have worked to dismantle the use of the term 'negro' in contemporary discourse. Activists argue that language shapes societal perceptions and that using terms that respect and affirm identity is crucial. Workshops and discussions on the impact of language are now focused on promoting inclusive terminology that empowers individuals within the African American community and beyond.

Negro Synonyms

african, african american, african diaspora, african heritage, afro-american, afro-caribbean, afrocentric, afro-latinx, bantu, black, black american, caribbean, dark-skinned, descendant of enslaved africans, east african, ethnic minority, multicultural, negroid, person of color, west african

Negro Antonyms

amerindian, anglo-american, arab, aryan, asian, caucasian, creole, ethnic majority, european, hispanic, indigenous, indo-european, jewish, latino, mestizo, middle eastern, nordic, pacific islander, south asian, white

Negro Crossword Answers

5 Letters

BLACK

7 Letters

NEGROID, AFRICAN

10 Letters

BLACKAMOOR

11 Letters

BLACKPERSON