Polack
Polack (noun) means a Polish person (often considered an ethnic slur in English). Example: “The word "polack" is widely regarded as offensive in modern English.”
How to use Polack
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishAn English term for a Polish person that is now generally considered a slur.
Offensive in modern English usage; avoid using it to refer to Polish people. "Polish person" or "Pole" are the neutral terms.
Word forms
Polacks plural
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The word "_____" is widely regarded as offensive in modern English.
Etymology
From Polish Polak, meaning simply "a Polish person" — neutral in Polish but has taken on a derogatory tone as an English loanword.
Frequently asked questions
What does “Polack” mean?
The word “Polack” means a Polish person (often considered an ethnic slur in English). In plain terms, an English term for a Polish person that is now generally considered a slur.
How do you pronounce “Polack”?
“Polack” is pronounced POH-lak (/ˈpoʊlɑk/ in IPA).
How do you use “Polack” in a sentence?
Here is “Polack” used in a sentence: “The word "polack" is widely regarded as offensive in modern English.”
What part of speech is “Polack”?
“Polack” is a noun.
Where does the word “Polack” come from?
The word “Polack” comes from Polish. From Polish Polak, meaning simply "a Polish person" — neutral in Polish but has taken on a derogatory tone as an English loanword.
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