Plural of negro, a term historically used to describe Black people (now considered offensive in most contexts).
From Spanish and Portuguese 'negro' (black), derived from Latin 'niger' (black). Used from the 1500s, but became increasingly offensive through the 20th century as language evolved.
Language actively changes with social progress—terms once standard become unacceptable as communities reclaim power over their own identity, which is why this word's history is important but its current use is harmful.
This is an archaic English spelling of a term derived from Spanish/Portuguese 'negro' (black). While not inherently slur-adjacent like 'n-word,' modern usage is obsolete and associated with colonial-era texts. Contemporary scholarly use exists (e.g., W.E.B. Du Bois's 'The Negro'), but outside academic historical context, it registers as dated or distancing.
In contemporary writing, use 'Black people,' 'Black Americans,' or specific national/cultural identities. When citing historical texts using this term, provide context.
["Black people","Black Americans","African Americans (U.S. context)"]
Black scholars and communities define their own contemporary terminology; 'negroes' reflects colonial/external naming rather than self-determination.
Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.