Arab

/ˈærəb/ noun

Definition

member of a Semitic people of the Arabian Peninsula and surrounding regions

Etymology

Latin Arabus, from Greek Araps

Kelly Says

Refers to ethnicity, not religion or nationality

Ethical Language Guidance

Gender History

Arab identity has been orientalized and stereotyped in Western discourse; women's voices particularly marginalized in representation, often reduced to stereotypes (submissive, veiled) erasing diversity and agency.

Inclusive Usage

Use 'Arab' or specific national/ethnic identifiers; avoid generalizations. Center Arab women's intellectual and political leadership in historical and contemporary contexts.

Inclusive Alternatives

["Arab person","Arab community member","people of Arab descent"]

Empowerment Note

Arab women scholars, activists, and leaders (Fatima Mernissi, Nawal El Saadawi, Raif Badawi's sister) have challenged orientalist narratives and reclaimed representation.

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