Chinese

noun

Chi·​nese chī-ˈnēz How to pronounce Chinese (audio) -ˈnēs How to pronounce Chinese (audio)
plural Chinese
1
a
: a native or inhabitant of China
b
: a person of Chinese descent
2
: a group of related languages used by the people of China that are often mutually unintelligible in their spoken form but share a single system of writing and that constitute a branch of the Sino-Tibetan language family
especially : mandarin
Chinese adjective

Examples of Chinese in a Sentence

the customs of the Chinese He is learning to speak Chinese.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Key nationalities impacting global SPP Part of the negative SPP impact has come from fewer high-spending Russians and Chinese traveling globally due to sanctions and post-Covid caution, respectively. Kevin Rozario, Forbes.com, 30 June 2025 But a small number are involved in espionage or other activities on behalf of the [Chinese Communist Party]. Ashish Valentine, NPR, 29 June 2025 Stay after a day in the sun to enjoy one of the resort’s restaurant offerings including David’s Club bar and grill, Trevi’s Italian and Zen Chinese. Patrick Connolly, The Orlando Sentinel, 27 June 2025 Then there’s me: Chinese and serving as our clinic’s go-to Spanish interpreter. Chicago Tribune, 27 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for Chinese

Word History

First Known Use

1606, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Time Traveler
The first known use of Chinese was in 1606

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Cite this Entry

“Chinese.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/Chinese. Accessed 5 Jul. 2025.

Kids Definition

Chinese

noun
Chi·​nese chī-ˈnēz How to pronounce Chinese (audio) -ˈnēs How to pronounce Chinese (audio)
plural Chinese
1
a
: a person born or living in China
b
: a person of Chinese ancestry
2
: a group of related languages used in China
Chinese adjective
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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