Definition

1. Proper noun:
   • A historical region in Eurasia: Tartary refers to the extensive territories in Europe and Asia that were dominated by Mongol and Turkic peoples, particularly during the period of the Mongol Empire in the 13th and 14th centuries.

Usage Examples

• Proper noun:
  • Medieval European maps often labeled the steppes of Central Asia as Tartary.
  • Under Genghis Khan, Tartary extended as far east as the Pacific Ocean.

Advanced Usage

• Historical/Geographical Term: The term is primarily used in historical and geographical contexts to describe the area of Mongol influence. It is an archaic exonym and is not used for modern political geography.
  • The travels of Marco Polo described parts of Tartary.

Variants and Related Words

• Tartar (noun, historical): A member of the Mongol or Turkic tribes inhabiting Tartary. (Note: This term is also considered archaic and can be pejorative.)
• Tatary: An alternate, less common spelling for Tartary.

Synonyms

• The Mongol Empire: Specifically refers to the political entity.
• Central Asian steppes: Describes the physical geography of much of the region.

Notes on Usage

• Archaic Term: "Tartary" is an outdated historical term derived from "Tatar." It is not used in contemporary contexts to refer to any modern nation or region. Modern equivalents would specify countries like Mongolia, Kazakhstan, or parts of Russia.
• Potential Offense: The terms "Tartary" and "Tartar" are based on historical European misnomers and can carry negative connotations. In modern academic writing, more precise terms like "the Mongol Empire" or specific regional names are preferred.

Noun

1. the vast geographical region of Europe and Asia that was controlled by the Mongols in the 13th and 14th centuries
   • under Genghis Khan Tartary extended as far east as the Pacific Ocean