nigga
Noun: 1. (Extremely offensive ethnic slur): A deeply offensive and derogatory term historically used to demean and dehumanize Black people. Its use is considered highly racist and unacceptable in standard discourse. * Note on usage: Due to its violent history and extreme offensiveness, this word is almost universally condemned when used by individuals who are not Black. Its reclamation and use within some Black communities is a complex sociolinguistic phenomenon that does not negate its harmful power as a slur.
- Noun (as a historical or quoted slur):
- The old text contained the offensive word nigga, shocking modern readers.
- He was rightly condemned for using the racial slur nigga.
- Intra-community Reclamation: Within some Black communities, particularly in certain musical genres and informal settings, a variant spelling ("nigga") is sometimes used. This usage is highly context-dependent and can signal familiarity, solidarity, or be used as a term of defiance. It is crucial to understand that this reappropriated usage does not grant permission for others to use the term and does not erase its history as a violent slur.
- Example (illustrating reclamation context): The artist's lyrics explored the complex reclamation of the word nigga within the community.
- Nigger (noun): The original and most offensive form of the slur. The entry word "nigga" is often considered a phonetic spelling or variant of this term.
- The N-word (noun): A common euphemism used to refer to the slur without stating it explicitly, acknowledging its power and offensiveness.
- Slur (noun): A general term for an insulting or disparaging remark.
- Epithet (noun): A descriptive term, often used to mean a derogatory name.
This word is classified as an ethnic slur. Its use is widely considered unacceptable and harmful. It carries a heavy historical burden of racism, violence, and oppression. Language learners should understand its meaning solely to recognize its offensiveness and historical context. It should not be used in speech or writing.
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(ethnic slur) extremely offensive name for a Black person
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only a Black can call another Black a nigga
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