# Caucasian

/kɔˈkeɪʒən/ (US) · CEFR B2 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/caucasian
Updated: 2026-05-29

## Definition

relating to people of European, North African, or West Asian descent. You use this word to describe a person's racial or ethnic background.

For teachers: relating to the population of Europe, North Africa, and West Asia; used as a racial or ethnic classifier. Often capitalised in formal demographic contexts.

## Examples

- She is a Caucasian woman with blonde hair.
- The census form asks you to select your ethnic group, including options like Caucasian or Asian.
- Historical definitions of Caucasian have shifted significantly, moving from a broad biological classification to a more nuanced social and cultural category.

## Usage notes

- Often capitalised when referring to the racial group; lower case when used in geographical contexts.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.