Bohunk

/ˈboʊhʌŋk/ noun

Definition

An offensive slur for immigrants from Central Europe, particularly those from bohemia, austria, or polish regions, historically used in the United States.

Etymology

Combination of 'Bohemian' and a derogatory suffix, likely influenced by similar-sounding slurs. Created in early 20th-century America as immigrant groups faced discrimination.

Kelly Says

The term 'bohunk' reveals how quickly 'bohemian,' once a romantic term for artists, became a slur when applied to poor Eastern European workers competing for jobs during American industrialization.

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