European
/ˌjʊərəˈpiːən/
adjective
Origin
Ancient Greek
Εὐρώπη (Eurṓpē) — a proper name of mythological origin, possibly meaning 'wide-viewing'
Overview
Meaning Now
- Of or relating to Europe, its inhabitants, or their cultures.
- A native or inhabitant of Europe.
Literal older meaning
belonging to or originating from the region of Europa
Language path
Ancient Greek → Latin → English
Earliest form
European
Earliest period
17th century
Journey
The term derives from the Greek mythological figure Europa. In early classical contexts, it referred specifically to the lands west of the Aegean Sea, gradually expanding in usage to encompass the entire continent as known to geographers.
Evolution
- Ancient Greek
Eurṓpē
“Mythological daughter of Agenor; geographical landmass”
- Latin
Europaeus
“of or relating to Europe”
- Middle French
Européen
“inhabitant of Europe”
- English
European
“relating to Europe”
Connections
Word parts
Europe
root
geographical continent
-an
suffix
forming adjectives or nouns denoting origin or membership
Related across languages
French
Européen
European
German
europäisch
European
Spanish
europeo
European
Explore next
Related to European
External references use DefinedTerm semantics.