People of unusually small stature, especially certain indigenous groups in central Africa; historically also used for anyone or anything very small.
From Greek 'pygmaios' (small, literally 'the size of a fist,' from 'pygme,' the length from elbow to knuckles). Ancient Greeks used this to describe African peoples they encountered. Modern usage is considered offensive by many.
The Greek word 'pygme' (fist-length) reveals how ancient people measured things with their own bodies before standardized units existed—and today, scientists study Pygmy populations to understand how human genetics produce different body sizes.
Colonial-era term weaponized to dehumanize African and Asian peoples, often paired with racialized pseudoscientific claims about women's bodies and intelligence. Reinforced gender stereotypes alongside racist hierarchies.
Avoid entirely. Use specific ethnic group names (e.g., 'San people,' 'Mbuti') or 'people of short stature' if medically relevant.
["San people","Mbuti","Hadza","people of short stature"]
Women from these communities have been doubly marginalized by intersecting racism and sexism in anthropology and colonial discourse; centering their voices and agency restores dignity.
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