Alsacian
|Al-sa-cian|
/ælˈseɪʃən/
from or relating to Alsace
Etymology
'Alsacian' originates from French, specifically the word 'alsacien', which in turn comes from the place-name 'Alsace' (French) / 'Elsass' (German).
'Alsacian' entered English as a borrowing from French 'alsacien'; the place-name 'Alsace' itself comes from German 'Elsass' (Old High German 'Elsaz'), and the adjective/noun forms developed to mean 'of or from Alsace.'
Initially it meant 'of or from Alsace'; over time the word has been used also for the regional dialect and, historically in British usage, for the dog breed now commonly called the German Shepherd.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
a person from Alsace (a region in northeastern France).
He is an Alsacian who moved to Lyon last year.
Synonyms
Noun 2
the regional language or dialect of Alsace (often the Alemannic German variety spoken there).
Many older residents still speak Alsacian at home.
Synonyms
Noun 3
a dog breed — historically used in British English for the German Shepherd.
An Alsacian stood by its owner at the park.
Synonyms
Adjective 1
relating to Alsace, its people, culture, language, or products.
They enjoyed Alsacian cuisine during their trip.
Synonyms
Last updated: 2025/09/16 16:25