noun
Saracen
SA-ruh-suhn
Saracen (noun) means a historical term for a Muslim, particularly one who fought against the Crusaders in medieval Europe. Example: “The chronicle describes the knight's battles against the Saracens.”
noun
1
A historical term for a Muslim, particularly one who fought against the Crusaders in medieval Europe.
"The chronicle describes the knight's battles against the Saracens."
2
Originally, a member of a nomadic Arab people living near the Roman province of Arabia.
"Ancient sources first used "Saracen" to describe desert peoples near Sinai."
How to use Saracen
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishAn old European term, mainly used in medieval writing, for Arabs or Muslims — especially in the context of the Crusades.
Common mistake
Considered a dated, historical term today rather than a neutral modern word for Muslims or Arabs.
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Word forms
- Plural
- Saracens
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The chronicle describes the knight's battles against the _____.
Etymology
From Late Latin "Saracenus," from Ancient Greek "Sarakenos," of disputed origin — possibly linked to Arabic words for "easterners" or "plunderers."
Frequently asked questions
What does “Saracen” mean?
The word “Saracen” means a historical term for a Muslim, particularly one who fought against the Crusaders in medieval Europe. In plain terms, an old European term, mainly used in medieval writing, for Arabs or Muslims — especially in the context of the Crusades.
How do you pronounce “Saracen”?
“Saracen” is pronounced SA-ruh-suhn (/ˈsæɹəˌsən/ in IPA).
How do you use “Saracen” in a sentence?
Here is “Saracen” used in a sentence: “The chronicle describes the knight's battles against the Saracens.”
What part of speech is “Saracen”?
“Saracen” is a noun.
Where does the word “Saracen” come from?
The word “Saracen” comes from Ancient Greek. From Late Latin "Saracenus," from Ancient Greek "Sarakenos," of disputed origin — possibly linked to Arabic words for "easterners" or "plunderers.".
How many meanings does “Saracen” have?
“Saracen” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a historical term for a Muslim, particularly one who fought against the Crusaders in medieval Europe.
