East Indian

1 of 2

adjective

1

: of, relating to, or characteristic of the East Indies

2

: of, relating to, or characteristic of India or Pakistan

East Indian

2 of 2

noun

1

: a native or inhabitant of the East Indies

sometimes : eurasian

2

: a native or inhabitant of India or Pakistan

also : a person of East Indian ancestry

Word History

Etymology

Adjective

East India + English -an

First Known Use

Adjective

1553, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Noun

1555, in the meaning defined at sense 1

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

1. Expanded definitions
2. Detailed etymologies
3. Advanced search tools
4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now

Rhymes for East Indian

• amerindian