Dagos

/ˈdæɡoʊz/ noun

Definition

An alternate plural form of 'dago,' an outdated and offensive ethnic slur against people of Italian, Spanish, or Portuguese descent.

Etymology

Like 'dagoes,' this is a plural variant of 'dago,' derived from the Spanish name 'Diego' and used as a pejorative term against Southern European immigrants.

Kelly Says

The multiple plural forms of this slur ('dagoes' and 'dagos') show how casually derogatory language was integrated into everyday English speech patterns during eras of ethnic discrimination.

Ethical Language Guidance

Gender History

Plural of 'dago,' a 19th-20th century ethnic slur against Italian and Spanish people. The slur became embedded in colonial-era language.

Inclusive Usage

Avoid entirely; word is slur. Use 'Italian person' or 'Spanish person' if ethnicity is relevant.

Inclusive Alternatives

["Italian","Spanish","Portuguese"]

Related Words

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