noun

injun

IHN-juhn

Injun (noun) means an old-fashioned and now offensive term for a Native American. Example: “The old western movie used the outdated and offensive term "injun" throughout.”

noun

An old-fashioned and now offensive term for a Native American.

"The old western movie used the outdated and offensive term "injun" throughout."

How to use injun

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishA dated, disrespectful word for a Native American — best avoided in modern usage.

When to use it

Considered offensive and outdated; not used in respectful or modern contexts.

Word forms

injuns plural

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The old western movie used the outdated and offensive term "_____" throughout.

Etymology

A dialect spelling of "Indian," first recorded in the early 1800s.

· First attested 1800

Class of 1800 injun joined the language around 1800.

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Frequently asked questions

What does “injun” mean?

The word “injun” means an old-fashioned and now offensive term for a Native American. In plain terms, a dated, disrespectful word for a Native American — best avoided in modern usage.

How do you pronounce “injun”?

“Injun” is pronounced IHN-juhn (/ˈɪn.dʒən/ in IPA).

How do you use “injun” in a sentence?

Here is “injun” used in a sentence: “The old western movie used the outdated and offensive term "injun" throughout.”

What part of speech is “injun”?

“Injun” is a noun.

Where does the word “injun” come from?

The word “injun” dates back to around 1800. A dialect spelling of "Indian," first recorded in the early 1800s.