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

1. a member of the largest ethnic group in southeastern Nigeria
   • most Igbo are farmers