noun
Asian
AY-zhuhn
noun
1
A person from Asia or of Asian descent — in North America and Australia the word is often used specifically for people of East or Southeast Asian background, while in Britain it more often refers to people of South Asian background.
"She identifies as Asian American, with family roots in Vietnam."
"In the UK, "Asian" commonly refers to people with heritage from India, Pakistan, or Bangladesh."
adj
1
Relating to or coming from Asia.
"The restaurant specializes in Asian cuisine."
How to Use Asian
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishDescribes people, places, or things connected to the continent of Asia.
UK vs US
In American and Australian English the word usually implies East/Southeast Asian heritage; in British English it more often implies South Asian heritage. The intended meaning can vary a lot by country, so context matters.
Word Forms
Asians plural
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She identifies as _____ American, with family roots in Vietnam.
Etymology
Formed from Asia plus the suffix -an.