noun
dago
DAY-goh
Dago (noun) means (offensive slang, dated) A derogatory term for a person of Italian, Spanish, or Portuguese descent. Example: “The word is now considered a slur and is avoided in modern writing except when discussing its history.”
noun
1
(offensive slang, dated) A derogatory term for a person of Italian, Spanish, or Portuguese descent.
"The word is now considered a slur and is avoided in modern writing except when discussing its history."
How to use dago
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA now-offensive ethnic slur historically aimed at Southern Europeans, especially Italians.
When to use it
Strongly offensive; included here only for dictionary completeness, not for use.
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Word forms
- Plural
- dagoes, dagos
Etymology
An alteration of "Diego," a common Spanish given name; sailors in 19th-century America first applied it to Spanish-speaking crewmen before it broadened, and later narrowed in some countries to mean specifically "Italian."
Class of 1800
dago joined the language around 1800.
See the full Class of 1800 →
Synonyms
View more →Related words
Rhymes for dago
See all rhymes for dago →Frequently asked questions
What does “dago” mean?
The word “dago” means (offensive slang, dated) A derogatory term for a person of Italian, Spanish, or Portuguese descent. In plain terms, a now-offensive ethnic slur historically aimed at Southern Europeans, especially Italians.
How do you pronounce “dago”?
“Dago” is pronounced DAY-goh (/ˈdeɪɡəʊ/ in IPA).
How do you use “dago” in a sentence?
Here is “dago” used in a sentence: “The word is now considered a slur and is avoided in modern writing except when discussing its history.”
What part of speech is “dago”?
“Dago” is a noun.
Where does the word “dago” come from?
The word “dago” dates back to around 1800 and comes from Italian.
