Berber

/ˈbɛrbər/ noun

Definition

A member of a North African people with their own languages and culture, primarily found in Morocco, Algeria, Tunisia, and Libya.

Etymology

From Arabic 'Barbar,' possibly derived from the Greek word 'Barbari' (barbarians), a term outsiders used. The Berber people themselves prefer the term 'Amazigh,' meaning 'free people.' The word entered English through historical European accounts of North Africa.

Kelly Says

The Berber people have maintained their distinct language and culture for over 3,000 years despite waves of Roman, Arab, and European colonization, making them one of history's most resilient civilizations—their language Tamazight is experiencing a major revival today!

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