Algerines

/ˈæl.dʒə.riːnz/ noun

Definition

Plural of algerine; people from Algiers/Algeria, particularly corsairs or pirates, or objects associated with Algerian culture.

Etymology

Plural form of 'algerine,' adding the standard '-s' suffix. The term was especially common in English naval records and trade documents from the 17th-19th centuries when interactions with Algerian corsairs were frequent.

Kelly Says

English captains wrote detailed logs about encounters with 'algerines' in ways that mixed grudging respect with fear—these corsairs were so successful they actually negotiated treaties with European nations and forced countries to pay tribute.

Ethical Language Guidance

Gender History

Plural of 'algerine,' retaining colonial-era gender and ethnic markers. Used historically to denote both Algerian people and pirate communities, with inconsistent gendering across sources.

Inclusive Usage

Replace with 'Algerians' for modern usage. If discussing historical piracy or colonial texts, acknowledge the dated framing.

Inclusive Alternatives

["Algerians"]

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