adj
Very common
European
yoor-ruh-PEE-uhn
European (adj) means relating to Europe or its people, culture, or institutions. Example: “She studied European history at university.”
adj
1
Relating to Europe or its people, culture, or institutions.
"She studied European history at university."
"European cuisine varies enormously from country to country."
2
(finance) Describing an option contract that can only be exercised on its expiry date, not before.
"European options are simpler to price than American ones because early exercise isn't allowed."
noun
1
A person from Europe.
"Many Europeans travel visa-free within the Schengen Area."
How to use European
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishOf or from Europe — or, in finance jargon, an option you can only cash in on one fixed date.
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Word forms
- Plural
- Europeans
- Comparative
- more European
- Superlative
- most European
Fill the gap
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She studied _____ history at university.
Etymology
From French européen, ultimately from the same Greek root as Europe.
Synonyms
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Rhymes for European
See all rhymes for European →Frequently asked questions
What does “European” mean?
The word “European” means relating to Europe or its people, culture, or institutions. In plain terms, of or from Europe — or, in finance jargon, an option you can only cash in on one fixed date.
How do you pronounce “European”?
“European” is pronounced yoor-ruh-PEE-uhn (/ˌjʊɹ.əˈpi.ən/ in IPA).
How do you use “European” in a sentence?
Here is “European” used in a sentence: “She studied European history at university.”
What part of speech is “European”?
Depending on how it is used, “European” can be an adjective and a noun.
Where does the word “European” come from?
The word “European” comes from French. From French européen, ultimately from the same Greek root as Europe.
Is “European” a common word?
“European” is a very common word in modern English.
How many meanings does “European” have?
“European” has 3 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: relating to Europe or its people, culture, or institutions.
What does it mean to call something European?
Calling something European means it relates to the continent of Europe, its people, cultures, languages, or institutions. It can describe geography, such as European cities, or shared traditions and bodies like the European Union. The word links whatever it modifies to Europe in some meaningful way.
Is European a formal word?
European is neutral and fits both everyday and formal contexts. It appears in casual conversation about travel or food and in official language about politics, law, and economics. As an adjective describing origin or association, it carries no particular formality on its own.
What is an example of European used in a sentence?
You might say, "She has a very European sense of style," or "The company follows European privacy laws." In the first, it points to culture; in the second, to institutions and regulation. Both tie the noun to Europe or its people and systems.
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