Esselenian

/ˌɛsəˈleniən/ adjective

Definition

Relating to or characteristic of the Esselen people, their culture, or their historical homeland.

Etymology

From Esselen (the Native American people) + -ian (suffix meaning 'of or relating to'). Standard English formation for describing indigenous peoples.

Kelly Says

Adding -ian to people's names is how English marks cultural identity, but it's worth noting that many indigenous groups now prefer to define these terms themselves rather than having outsiders name them!

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