Pronunciation: [zˈambə͡ʊ] (IPA) 
The word "Zambo" is spelled with a "z", "a", "m", "b", and "o". The IPA phonetic transcription for this word is /ˈzæm.boʊ/. The "z" makes a "z" sound, the first "a" makes a short "a" sound, the "m" makes an "m" sound, the "b" makes a "b" sound, and the second "o" makes a long "o" sound. The word "Zambo" is used to refer to a person of mixed African and Indigenous American ancestry.
Zambo is a term primarily used in the Philippines and certain Latin American countries to refer to an individual of mixed African and indigenous or Austronesian ancestry. The term has historically been used to categorize people belonging to specific racial or ethnic groups resulting from intermarriage between Africans brought to these regions as slaves and the indigenous populations already present.
The term Zambo traces its origins to the Spanish colonial period when racial classification was prevalent and used as a means of social hierarchies. It is derived from the Spanish word "zambo," which originally referred to a type of unpredictable arrow with both a pointed and blunt end, symbolizing the mixture of African and indigenous traits.
Today, the term Zambo is considered outdated and inappropriate due to its association with racial discrimination and segregation. It is important to recognize and respect the individuality and identity of every person, rather than categorizing them based on their racial or ethnic background.
Efforts to promote inclusivity and equality have led to a shift towards more respectful terminology, with phrases such as "Filipino-African" or specific tribal affiliations being used to describe people of mixed heritage. It is crucial to approach discussions on racial and ethnic backgrounds with sensitivity and respect, acknowledging the diversity and complexity of individuals' identities.
The offspring of a negro and a mulatto; sometimes applied to the offspring of an Indian and a negro.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "Zambo" has its origins in the Spanish language. It is derived from the Spanish term "zambo", which was used to describe individuals of mixed African and indigenous American descent. The origin of the Spanish term is believed to come from an African language, most likely Bantu, where "nzambu" means certain types of people, possibly in reference to their mixed racial heritage. Over time, the term "Zambo" spread to different parts of the Americas, where it was used to designate similar individuals of mixed African and indigenous heritage.
