noun
Uncommon
Af
af
Af (noun) means a historical, now offensive term used in colonial-era Rhodesia for a Black African. Example: “The term "af" appears in older Rhodesian texts and is now considered a slur.”
noun
1
A historical, now offensive term used in colonial-era Rhodesia for a Black African.
"The term "af" appears in older Rhodesian texts and is now considered a slur."
How to use Af
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA dated and offensive shortening of "African" used in colonial Rhodesia; not used in modern English.
When to use it
Obsolete and offensive — included here only for historical/dictionary completeness, not for use.
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Word forms
- Plural
- Afs
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The term "_____" appears in older Rhodesian texts and is now considered a slur.
Etymology
Clipped from "African."
Frequently asked questions
What does “Af” mean?
The word “Af” means a historical, now offensive term used in colonial-era Rhodesia for a Black African. In plain terms, a dated and offensive shortening of "African" used in colonial Rhodesia; not used in modern English.
How do you pronounce “Af”?
“Af” is pronounced af (/æf/ in IPA).
How do you use “Af” in a sentence?
Here is “Af” used in a sentence: “The term "af" appears in older Rhodesian texts and is now considered a slur.”
What part of speech is “Af”?
“Af” is a noun.
Is “Af” a common word?
“Af” is an uncommon word in modern English.
Is the word "Af" offensive?
Yes. "Af" is a dated term from the colonial era that is understood as a racial slur today. It is not acceptable in modern speech or writing, and it appears in the dictionary only for historical and reference purposes.
In what historical context was the term "Af" used?
The word was used in colonial-era Rhodesia, in what is now Zimbabwe, as an offensive label for a Black African. It reflects the racist attitudes of that period. Because of this history, the term is regarded as derogatory.
Should the word "Af" be used today?
No. Because it is understood as a racial slur, "Af" should not be used to describe people. Modern, respectful language instead refers to someone as Black, African, or by their nationality.
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