# nigger

/ˈnɪɡɝ/ (US) · /nˈɪɡɐ/ (UK) · CEFR C2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/nigger
Updated: 2026-05-06

## Definition

an extremely offensive and hateful word for a Black person. You should never use this word because it has a long history of being used to hurt and insult people.

For teachers: an exceptionally offensive racial slur directed at Black people, carrying a history of systemic violence and oppression. While reclaimed in specific African American vernacular contexts, it remains a profound taboo for non-Black speakers.

## Usage notes

- Extremely offensive and taboo; its use by non-Black speakers is universally condemned in modern English.

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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.