What does it mean to be hispanic Meaning and Definition

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What does it mean to be Hispanic

What does it mean to be Hispanic

Pronunciation

/hɪˈspænɪk/ or /hɪˈspænik/

Part of Speech

Adjective or Noun

Definition

A person who is from or has ancestry from a Spanish-speaking country, particularly those countries in Central and South America, the Caribbean, and Spain. The term encompasses a broad range of cultures and ethnicities, including Mexican, Puerto Rican, Dominican, Cuban, and others.

Examples

  • She is a Hispanic businesswoman who has achieved great success.
  • Hispanic culture has had a significant impact on the United States.

Synonyms

  • Hispánico
  • Latino
  • Latin American

Antonyms

  • Non-Hispanic
  • Anglophone

Etymology

The term “Hispanic” originated from the Latin word “Hispanicus,” which referred to the Spanish people. It is derived from the word “Hispania,” which was the Roman name for the Iberian Peninsula.

Usage Notes

  • The term “Hispanic” is often used interchangeably with “Latino,” but some people prefer not to use the term due to its perceived association with Spanish-speaking countries only. It is essential to be mindful of the nuances and complexities of the term.
  • The term “Hispanic” can be used as an adjective to describe a person, culture, or event, or as a noun to refer to a person or a group of people.

Cultural References

The term “Hispanic” has been referenced in various forms of media, including literature, art, music, and film. Examples include the works of authors such as Gabriel García Márquez and Isabel Allende, and films like “Frida” and “Selena.”

Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases

  • “Hispanic community” or “Latinx community”
  • “Hispanic heritage” or “Latino culture”

Related Words or Phrases

  • Central American, South American, Caribbean
  • Mexican, Puerto Rican, Dominican, Cuban
  • Hispánico, Latino, Latin American

Collocations

  • Hispanic culture and identity
  • Hispanic heritage and tradition
  • Hispanic community and representation

Frequency of Use

The term “Hispanic” is widely used in various contexts, including education, politics, business, and media. According to the US Census Bureau, approximately 18% of the US population identifies as Hispanic or Latino.

Common Misspellings

  • Hyspanic, Hyspianic
  • Hispanik, Hispanicke
  • Hispanico, Hispánico

cultural References In Popular Culture

In the United States, many people of Hispanic or Latino descent have become increasingly prominent in various fields, including entertainment, sports, and politics. For example, Latinx artists such as J Balvin and Rosalía have gained international recognition, while Latinx politicians such as politicians like Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and Ilhan Omar have made significant impacts in their respective communities.