Langimage
English

Hispanic

|His-pan-ic|

B2

/hɪˈspænɪk/

related to Spain or Spanish-speaking people

Etymology
Etymology Information

'Hispanic' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'Hispanicus,' ultimately from 'Hispania' meaning the Iberian Peninsula (Spain).

Historical Evolution

'Hispanicus' (Latin) passed into medieval Romance languages and later into Spanish as 'hispánico' and into modern English as 'Hispanic.'

Meaning Changes

Initially it meant 'of or relating to Hispania/Spain'; over time, especially in English (U.S.), it broadened to mean 'relating to Spanish-speaking peoples or their cultures,' often including Latin American origins.

Meanings by Part of Speech

Noun 1

a person of Spanish-speaking origin or descent, especially someone from Latin America or their descendants (term commonly used in the United States).

She identifies as Hispanic.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Adjective 1

relating to Spain or to Spanish-speaking countries, their peoples, culture, or language.

Hispanic culture is celebrated at the festival.

Synonyms

Spanish-speakingIberian-related

Antonyms

Last updated: 2025/10/31 08:01