Asian

1 of 2

adjective

ˈā-zhən 

 also  -shən

: 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.

Asian

2 of 2

noun

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

Adjective

In the midst of the drizzle, sound effects with a distinctly Asian feel began playing and toku and the band’s supporting members took to the stage. —Billboard Japan, Billboard, 17 July 2024

The opening exhibition features a selection of works from prominent Asian artists including Ai Weiwei, Yue Minjun, Wu Kukwon, and Gongkan, among others. —Reena Devi, ARTnews.com, 17 July 2024

Noun

One such stereotype that has persevered through the decades is that Asian Americans are the model minority. —Vanessa Brugge, Orlando Sentinel, 21 July 2024

District 3, which includes Sloan Park and the Asian District in west Mesa, is a two-way race with incumbent Vice Mayor Francisco Heredia and Marc Lavender. —Shawn Raymundo, The Arizona Republic, 20 July 2024

Word History

First Known Use

Adjective

1550, in the meaning defined above

Noun

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing Asian

• anti-Asian
• Asian American
• Asian carp
• Asian citrus psyllid
• Asian elephant
• Asian flu
• Asian giant hornet
• Asian hornet
• Asian longhorn beetle
• Asian longhorned beetle
• Asian pear
• Asian tiger mosquito

Kids Definition

Asian

adjective

ˈā-zhən,

ˈā-shən

: of, relating to, or characteristic of Asia or its people

Asian noun