How Do You Spell MISCEGENATION?

Pronunciation: [mɪsˌɛd͡ʒənˈe͡ɪʃən] (IPA)

The word "miscegenation" (/ˌmɪsɪdʒɪˈneɪʃən/) refers to the mixing of different racial groups, particularly in terms of marriage or intimate relationships. The spelling of the word combines the Latin root words "miscere" (to mix) and "genus" (race or kind) with the suffix "-ation" (the act or process of doing). The phonetic transcription highlights the emphasis on the second syllable and the aspirated "j" sound in the third syllable, which can pose a challenge for English-language learners.

MISCEGENATION Meaning and Definition

1. Miscegenation is a term used to describe the mixing or interbreeding of people from different racial or ethnic backgrounds, particularly through marriage, sexual relationships, or procreation. The concept emerged within the context of racial classifications and social hierarchies prevalent in certain societies, especially during periods of colonialism and racial segregation.

   Historically, miscegenation was often perceived as controversial and subjected to legal and social restrictions in various parts of the world. These restrictions aimed to reinforce racial divisions and preserve racial purity, as they were based on discriminatory beliefs, prejudices, and notions of superiority associated with race.

   Over time, the term has become more obsolete due to changing social attitudes, growing multiculturalism, and movements towards equality and diversity. Interracial relationships and marriages have increasingly been accepted and normalized, as societies embrace the idea of racial and cultural mixing, valuing the individuality and rights of each person rather than their racial background. Consequently, anti-miscegenation laws have been abolished in many countries, facilitating greater social integration and harmony.

   Miscegenation remains a relevant topic for studying historical and contemporary race relations, cultural dynamics, and the construction of identities and social norms. It is crucial to recognize that racial mixing can lead to the formation of hybrid cultures and enrich societies with diverse perspectives, traditions, and values.

2. Marriage or sexual relations between individuals of different races, especially of the white and black races.

   A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.

Common Misspellings for MISCEGENATION

• misegination
• miscegination
• miscgenation
• misegenation
• miscegneation
• micegenations
• miscegenatiosn
• miscigenation
• miscegeneation
• misciganeation
• Miscegynition
• Miscegonation
• Miscepetation

Etymology of MISCEGENATION

The word "miscegenation" originated in the United States in the mid-19th century. It is a combination of two Latin terms: "miscere" meaning "to mix" and "genus" meaning "race" or "kind". Therefore, "miscegenation" literally translates to "mixing of races".

The term was initially used in a scientific context during the rise of racial theories in the 19th century, particularly in the field of anthropology, to describe the mixing of different racial groups. It was often associated with negative connotations and used to refer to interracial marriage or sexual relations between people of different races.

During the time of its coinage, there was increasing concern about the preservation of racial purity, as notions of racism and eugenics were becoming more prominent.

Similar spelling word for MISCEGENATION

• miscegenate.

Plural form of MISCEGENATION is MISCEGENATIONS