: of, relating to, or characteristic of the continent of Asia or its people
Asian vs. Asiatic: Usage Guide
Asian is now solidly preferred to Asiatic; the latter persists mainly in the names of some kinds of flora and fauna.
an Asiatic lily
the Asiatic elephant
Asiatic still has some use as a geographical designator
the Asiatic side of the Bosporus
but has increasingly been considered offensive, especially as associated with the policies of colonialism.
1
: a native or inhabitant of Asia
2
: a person of Asian descent
Examples of Asian in a Sentence
Noun
There are many Asians living in South America.
Recent Examples on the Web
Hanna Wickes, Miami Herald, 29 May 2026
In Georgia, the Savannah Morning News told readers how to identify invasive Asian needle ants, while in South Florida, scientists say Burmese pythons could eradicate the endangered Key Largo woodrats if left unchecked.
—Dinah Voyles Pulver, USA Today, 29 May 2026
Kansas City Star, 29 May 2026
The Asian Trekking team said that Andrews completed a solo climb, during which guides provided supplementary oxygen, food and water while tracking his ascent.
—CBS News, 28 May 2026
See All Example Sentences for Asian
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Adjective
Which Asian and European Craft Markets Are Must-Sees for Travelers?
—Hanna Wickes, Miami Herald, 29 May 2026
In Georgia, the Savannah Morning News told readers how to identify invasive Asian needle ants, while in South Florida, scientists say Burmese pythons could eradicate the endangered Key Largo woodrats if left unchecked.
—Dinah Voyles Pulver, USA Today, 29 May 2026
Noun
The program works with Asian Mental Health KC and currently has funding to cover two people per quarter.
—Kansas City Star, 29 May 2026
The Asian Trekking team said that Andrews completed a solo climb, during which guides provided supplementary oxygen, food and water while tracking his ascent.
—CBS News, 28 May 2026
See All Example Sentences for Asian
Cite this Entry
“Asian.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/Asian. Accessed 31 May. 2026.
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