# Joo

/ˈdʒu/ (US) · CEFR C2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/joo
Updated: 2026-08-15

## Definition

a very rude and offensive word for a Jewish person. You should not use this word because it is meant to hurt and insult people.

For teachers: an ethnic slur used to refer to a Jewish person. Highly offensive and derogatory; used to express antisemitism.

## Examples

- The hateful graffiti included a joo slur.
- The moderator immediately banned the user for posting the word joo and other antisemitic insults in the chat.
- Historians documenting the rise of online hate speech have noted how intentional misspellings like joo are often used to bypass automated content filters while still conveying a clear message of bigotry.

## Usage notes

- Highly offensive; restricted to derogatory contexts or academic discussions of hate speech.

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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.