What does guero mean Meaning and Definition
What does guero mean
Pronunciation
/ˈgewɛroʊ/
Part of Speech
Noun
Definition
A person of European ancestry, particularly from Spain or Portugal, living in Latin America or the United States.
Examples
- The guero community in Mexico has a strong cultural identity.
- Gueros are often associated with wealth and privilege in Latin America.
Synonyms
- European
- White
Antonyms
- Mestizo
- Indigenous
Etymology
The word “guero” comes from the Spanish word for “blonde” or “fair-haired,” which was used to describe people of European ancestry in Latin America.
Usage Notes
The term “guero” is often used in Latin America to refer to people of European ancestry, but it can also be used in a derogatory way to imply that someone is privileged or out of touch with the local culture.
Cultural References
The term “guero” has been used in various forms of media, including music and literature, to describe the experiences of people of European ancestry living in Latin America.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
- “Ser un guero” (to be a guero) – to be a person of European ancestry.
- “El guero del pueblo” (the guero of the town) – a local celebrity or prominent figure.
Related Words or Phrases
- “Criollo” – a person of mixed European and indigenous ancestry.
- “Mestizo” – a person of mixed European and indigenous ancestry.
Collocations
- “Guero español” – a Spanish person of European ancestry.
- “Guero estadounidense” – an American person of European ancestry.
Frequency of Use
The term “guero” is commonly used in Latin America and among Latinx communities in the United States.
Common Misspellings
- *gueroa
- *gueroo
- *gueroy
Additional Information
Gueros often play an important role in the economies of Latin American countries, particularly in industries such as finance, commerce, and tourism. However, their presence can also be seen as a reminder of the historical and ongoing inequalities between European and indigenous populations in the region. As a result, the term “guero” can evoke a range of emotions and reactions, from pride and identity to criticism and resentment.
The experiences of gueros can also be marked by a sense of contradictions and paradoxes. On the one hand, they may be seen as representative of European values and standards, and may be accused of being too “European” or “Western.” On the other hand, they may also be seen as outsiders in their own countries, struggling to navigate complex social and cultural norms that are often hostile to their presence.
Ultimately, the term “guero” challenges us to think critically about the ways in which identity, culture, and power intersect, particularly in the context of Latin America.