blackamoor
/'blækəmuə/
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
Noun: 1. A dated and offensive term for a person with dark skin, especially one of African descent. This term is now considered archaic and highly pejorative. Its use reflects historical racial prejudices and is not appropriate in modern language.
Usage Examples
- Noun:
- The painting from the 18th century depicted a blackamoor holding a torch, a style now recognized as a problematic racial caricature.
- In some older literature, the term blackamoor was used to describe characters from Africa.
Advanced Usage
- The term is primarily encountered in historical texts, art, and discussions about historical language and racism. It should not be used as a synonym for a Black person.
- It is sometimes seen in the context of "blackamoor jewelry" or decorative arts, referring to a style of figurine or ornament depicting a Black person, often in a stereotypical and servile manner. This usage is also considered offensive.
Variants and Related Words
- Moor (noun): A historical term for a Muslim inhabitant of the Maghreb, the Iberian Peninsula, Sicily, and Malta during the Middle Ages. While also a complex historical term, it is distinct from "blackamoor" and is not inherently pejorative in a historical context.
Synonyms
- Black person: The standard, respectful modern term.
- Person of color: A broader modern term.
- (Historical, often offensive) Negro: An outdated term that was once standard but is now considered offensive in most contexts.
Important Note on Synonyms: The synonyms listed for historical reference are also largely outdated and carry negative connotations. The appropriate modern terms are "Black person" or "person of color."
Related Idioms and Phrases
- To wash an Ethiope/blackamoor white: An archaic proverb meaning to attempt a useless or impossible task. This phrase is deeply offensive and should not be used.
Noun
- a person with dark skin who comes from Africa (or whose ancestors came from Africa)