How Do You Spell INDIAN?

Pronunciation: [ˈɪndi͡ən] (IPA)

The spelling of the word "Indian" is straightforward. The word consists of three syllables, with the stress falling on the first syllable. The initial sound is /ɪ/, followed by the consonant /n/, and then the vowel /di/ pronounced as /dɪ/. The final syllable is pronounced as /ən/, with a schwa sound. This spelling represents the English-language convention used for referring to people or things from India or with Indian cultural heritage. It is important to note that this term should not be confused with the indigenous peoples of the Americas, who are also called "Indians."

Meaning and Definition
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Etymology
Idioms
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INDIAN Meaning and Definition

  1. Indian is an adjective that refers to anything or anyone connected to the country of India, located in South Asia. The term can be used to describe various aspects related to India, ranging from its culture, customs, traditions, people, or anything originating from or characteristic of this nation.

    From a cultural standpoint, Indian often pertains to the practices, beliefs, and arts of India. This includes its music, dance forms (such as Bharatanatyam or Kathak), literature, cuisine, clothing styles (such as sarees or turbans), and religious traditions like Hinduism, Buddhism, Sikhism, or Islam which are prominent in the country.

    When referring to people, Indian typically denotes a person who holds Indian citizenship, or someone who is of Indian descent or heritage. The Indian population displays great diversity, encompassing various ethnic groups, languages, and religions. Indians are known for their warm hospitality, rich history, deep-rooted cultural values, and contributions to fields like technology, mathematics, and philosophy.

    In terms of geography and demographics, Indian can be used to describe the land, geographical features, or population of India. This encompasses the numerous states, cities, rivers, mountains, and other natural or man-made landmarks found within the country's borders.

    Overall, Indian is a versatile adjective that signifies anything or anyone connected to the vibrant and multifaceted nation of India.

  2. • A native.
    • Pert. to the Indies, E. or W..

    Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Top Common Misspellings for INDIAN *

* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.

Other Common Misspellings for INDIAN

Etymology of INDIAN

The word "Indian" originated from the term "Indies" or "East Indies", which referred to the regions of Southeast Asia, including India, Indonesia, and other neighboring countries. The term "Indies" was derived from the Latin word "India", which itself traces its roots back to the ancient Greek word "Indos", meaning the people living near the Indus River. Over time, the word "Indian" became specifically associated with the indigenous people of the Americas, as Christopher Columbus mistakenly believed that he had reached the Indies when he arrived in the Western Hemisphere. Despite the misnomer, the name "Indian" has persisted to refer to the Native American populations.

Idioms with the word INDIAN

  • an Indian giver The idiom "an Indian giver" refers to a person who gives something to someone but later takes it back or expects it to be returned. It is considered offensive and based on a stereotype of Native Americans as being deceptive or untrustworthy in their gift-giving practices.
  • Indian giver The idiom "Indian giver" is considered offensive and derogatory. It refers to a person who gives a gift but later wants it back or expects something in return. The term originated from misunderstandings between European settlers and Native Americans regarding the custom of gift-giving. It perpetuates stereotypes and should be avoided in modern usage.
  • (in) Indian file The idiom "(in) Indian file" refers to a formation in which people or things are arranged in a single line, one behind the other. It commonly implies that the line is orderly and often used in situations where it may be necessary to walk or move through a narrow or restricted space.
  • Indian summer The idiom "Indian summer" refers to a period of unseasonably warm and dry weather that occurs in late autumn, usually after the first frost. It describes a period of pleasant and mild weather that occurs after a period of colder temperatures, reminiscent of the warm autumn weather in the Indian subcontinent.
  • an Indian summer The idiom "an Indian summer" typically refers to a period of unseasonably warm and pleasant weather that occurs in autumn, typically after the first frost. It is characterized by a sudden return of summery conditions, with warm temperatures, clear skies, and a calm atmosphere. The term is derived from the belief that these weather patterns were often observed in North America during the autumn, when Native Americans traditionally enjoyed mild and sunny weather before the onset of winter.
  • the Indian sign The idiom "the Indian sign" refers to a gesture or action signifying bad luck, misfortune, or a jinx. It originates from the stereotypes and folklore associated with Indigenous peoples of America, falsely attributing supernatural powers to them. It implies that someone or something is cursed or brings bad luck.
  • Indian file The idiom "Indian file" refers to a single line or file in which people or objects are arranged one after another, usually in a straight line, similar to the way Native Americans used to walk during a formation or a trail.
  • (in) single/Indian ˈfile

Similar spelling words for INDIAN

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