Definition

Noun: 1. A white South African of Dutch, especially Huguenot, descent whose native language is Afrikaans. This term historically refers to the early European settlers, primarily farmers, in the Cape Colony and their descendants. It is often used in a historical context. * The Boers established several independent republics in southern Africa during the 19th century. * Many Boer families have lived on the same land for generations.

Usage Notes

• The term Boer is specific and carries historical weight. It refers to a particular ethnic and cultural group within South Africa.
• While Boer literally means "farmer" in Dutch and Afrikaans, its use in English refers specifically to the descendant community, not generally to any farmer.
• In modern contexts, the term Afrikaner is more commonly used to describe white South Africans of Dutch descent who speak Afrikaans, as it is broader and less tied to the historical conflicts of the 19th and early 20th centuries. Boer is often used when discussing historical events like the Great Trek or the Anglo-Boer Wars.

Examples

• Historical Context:

  • The Boer Wars were fought between the British Empire and the two Boer republics.
  • Boer commandos used guerrilla tactics against the British forces.

• Cultural/Descriptive Context:

  • He comes from a traditional Boer family that values its heritage.
  • Boer culture and cuisine have distinct characteristics.

Advanced / Historical Usage

• "Boer Republics": Refers to the independent self-governing states established by Boer settlers, primarily the South African Republic (Transvaal) and the Orange Free State.
• "Boer War" (specifically the Second Boer War, 1899-1902): A major conflict between the British Empire and the two Boer republics.

Variants and Related Words

• Afrikaner (n): A contemporary term for a white South African whose native language is Afrikaans and who is typically of Dutch, German, or French Huguenot descent. This is the more common modern term.
• Voortrekker (n): Refers specifically to the Boer pioneers who participated in the Great Trek (1835-1840) away from British rule in the Cape Colony.

Synonyms

• Afrikaner (in a modern, broader ethnic sense)
• South African of Dutch descent (descriptive)

Notes on Usage

• Due to its association with apartheid-era ideologies for some, the term Boer can sometimes be perceived as politically charged or dated. Afrikaner is generally the preferred neutral term in contemporary discourse, except when making specific historical references.

Noun

1. a white native of Cape Province who is a descendant of Dutch settlers and who speaks Afrikaans