How Do You Spell SAMBO?

Pronunciation: [sˈambə͡ʊ] (IPA)

The word "Sambo" has a unique spelling that is often misunderstood. It is pronounced /ˈsæmboʊ/, with the stress on the first syllable. The "a" in the first syllable is pronounced like the "a" in "cat," while the second syllable has a long "o" sound like in "go." The spelling of the word can be explained by its origin from "Samuel" and "Bojangles," two common names in African American culture. Despite its historical context, the word is considered derogatory and should be avoided.

SAMBO Meaning and Definition

1. Sambo is a noun that refers to a derogatory term or racial stereotype historically used to demean people of African descent. It originated during the era of slavery and was used to depict African Americans as ignorant, lazy, and childlike. The term became particularly widespread in the United States during the 19th and 20th centuries, perpetuating negative stereotypes and discriminatory attitudes.

   The term "Sambo" has its roots in the namesake character of a children's book titled "The Story of Little Black Sambo," written by Helen Bannerman in 1899. The character of Sambo was illustrated as a dim-witted and subservient figure, reinforcing harmful caricatures of black people. The book and its depiction of Sambo gained popularity, not only in America but also in other English-speaking countries.

   Over time, "Sambo" has evolved to become a highly offensive racial slur. It is essential to recognize and understand the impact of this term on marginalized communities. The use of "Sambo" perpetuates racism, dehumanization, and marginalization, and it goes against the principles of equality, respect, and inclusivity.

   It is crucial for society to actively reject and challenge the use of this term, promoting understanding, empathy, and respect towards all individuals, regardless of their race or ethnicity.

2. The offspring of a negro and a mulatto.

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

Common Misspellings for SAMBO

• xambo
• dambo
• eambo
• szmbo
• ssmbo
• swmbo
• sqmbo
• sakbo
• sajbo
• samno
• sambk
• sambl
• sambp
• samb0
• samb9
• asambo
• saambo
• zsambo
• szambo
• xsambo
• sxambo
• dsambo
• sdambo
• esambo
• seambo
• wsambo
• swambo
• sazmbo
• ssambo
• sasmbo
• sawmbo
• sqambo
• saqmbo
• sanmbo
• samnbo
• sakmbo
• samkbo
• sajmbo
• samjbo
• samvbo
• sambvo
• sambno
• samhbo
• sambho
• samgbo
• sambgo
• sambio
• samboi
• sambko
• sambok
• samblo
• sambol
• sambpo
• sambop
• samb0o
• sambo0
• samb9o
• sambo9
• smabo
• sabmo
• samob
• sammbo
• sambbo
• samboo
• cambo
• Simbo
• Sembo
• Scmbo
• Sa-bo
• Saebo
• Saibo
• Saobo
• Samro
• Samjo
• Samfo
• Samco
• Sambg
• Sambm
• Sambn
• s ambo
• sa mbo
• sam bo
• samb o

Etymology of SAMBO

The term "Sambo" has a complex etymology and has been used to refer to various things in different contexts. Some of the key origins of the term include:

1. Sambo as a name/personal marker: "Sambo" was originally a given name or a personal marker that derived from the West African name "Samba" or "Zamba". It has its roots in various African languages, including Kimbundu and Kikongo, spoken in regions such as Angola and the Congo.

2. Sambo as a derogatory term: In a historical context, "Sambo" has been used as a derogatory term to demean and stereotype Black people, particularly enslaved Africans and their descendants. The term was used to reinforce racist stereotypes, convey inferiority, and justify slavery and systemic oppression.

Plural form of SAMBO is SAMBOS