igbo
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
Proper noun 1. An ethnic group: The Igbo are one of the largest ethnic groups in Nigeria, primarily located in the southeastern region of the country. 2. A person: An Igbo is a member of this ethnic group. 3. A language: Igbo is the language spoken by the Igbo people.
Usage Examples
- Referring to the people:
- The Igbo have a rich cultural heritage.
- She is an Igbo from Enugu State.
- Referring to the language:
- He is learning to speak Igbo.
- The book was translated into Igbo.
Advanced Usage
- Cultural Context: The term is often used in discussions of Nigerian history, culture, and demographics. It is correctly used as both a singular and plural noun for people (e.g., one Igbo, many Igbo).
- Adjectival Form: The word "Igbo" itself is commonly used as an adjective (e.g., Igbo culture, Igbo traditions). The form "Igboan" is very rare and not standard.
Variants and Related Words
- Ibo: An older, alternative spelling for Igbo. The spelling "Igbo" is now standard.
- Igboland: A term referring to the geographic region predominantly inhabited by the Igbo people.
Synonyms
- Ibo (variant spelling)
Notes on Meaning
The primary meaning refers to the ethnic identity of a group of people. By extension, it refers to their language. It is a proper noun and is always capitalized.
Noun
- a member of the largest ethnic group in southeastern Nigeria
- most Igbo are farmers