# Niger

/ˈnaɪdʒɝ/ (US) · CEFR B2 · Noun

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

## Definition

a large country in West Africa that is mostly covered by the Sahara Desert. It is named after the great river that flows through its southwestern part.

For teachers: a landlocked country in West Africa, bordered by Libya, Chad, Nigeria, Benin, Burkina Faso, Mali, and Algeria. When used as a proper name, it refers to the sovereign state rather than the river of the same name.

## Examples

- Niamey is the capital city of Niger.
- The economy of Niger relies heavily on agriculture and the export of raw materials like uranium.
- As a landlocked nation in the Sahel, Niger faces significant challenges related to desertification and food security, yet it remains a vital cultural crossroads in West Africa.

## Usage notes

- Always capitalized as a proper name. In English, the pronunciation typically uses a soft 'j' sound (/ˈnaɪdʒər/), distinguishing it from the French pronunciation.

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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.