chinee

Definition
  1. Noun (informal, often considered offensive or dated):
    • A person of Chinese descent: "chinee" is a slang or colloquial term for a Chinese person. It is derived from "Chinese" and was historically used in casual speech, particularly in American English, but is now widely regarded as derogatory or stereotyping.
Usage Examples
  • (A dated, informal reference to a Chinese person.)
  • (A term that is now considered disrespectful or outdated.)
Advanced Usage
  • "Chinee" as a clipped form: The word is a shortening of "Chinese" (similar to "Chinaman"), reflecting a historical tendency to simplify ethnic labels in informal speech. It is rarely used in modern, respectful discourse.
    • The term "chinee" appears in some 19th-century American literature as a colloquialism. (Historical usage in texts.)
Variants and Related Words

  • Chinese (noun/adjective): the standard, neutral term for a person from China or of Chinese descent.

    • She is proud of her Chinese heritage. (Standard, respectful usage.)

  • Chinaman (noun, dated/offensive): another historical term for a Chinese person, now considered derogatory.

    • The term "Chinaman" is avoided in contemporary speech due to its negative connotations. (Similar to "chinee" in offensiveness.)
Synonyms
  • Chinese person: the formal, neutral term.
  • Han Chinese: a specific ethnic group within China.
Related Idioms
  • "Not a Chinaman's chance" (dated, offensive): an idiom meaning no chance at all, originating from discriminatory attitudes toward Chinese immigrants.
    • He thought he had not a Chinaman's chance of winning the lottery. (A phrase now considered racist and inappropriate.)
Note on Usage

The word "chinee" is not recommended for use in modern English. It is considered an ethnic slur or a pejorative term. Always use "Chinese person" or "person of Chinese descent" to be respectful and accurate.