coonass: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
LowVulgar slang, offensive
Quick answer
What does “coonass” mean?
A derogatory slang term for a Cajun person, primarily from Louisiana, USA.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A derogatory slang term for a Cajun person, primarily from Louisiana, USA.
While pejorative in origin and by outsiders, it is sometimes used by Cajuns themselves as a term of in-group pride or ironic self-identification, though this remains highly controversial.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
Virtually unknown and unused in British English. It is exclusively an American English term, regionally specific to the Gulf South.
Connotations
In American English: Highly offensive slur when used by non-Cajuns; complex and contentious when used by Cajuns.
Frequency
Zero frequency in British English. Very low frequency in American English, confined to specific regional contexts and discussions about ethnicity/slurs.
Grammar
How to Use “coonass” in a Sentence
[BE] a coonass[CALL someone] a coonassVocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “coonass” in a Sentence
adjective
American English
- He's got that coonass pride.
- She cooked a coonass feast of gumbo and jambalaya.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Inappropriate and unprofessional.
Academic
Only appropriate in sociological, linguistic, or historical discussions of pejorative language and Cajun culture.
Everyday
Extremely offensive and risky if used by non-Cajuns. Avoided in polite conversation.
Technical
Not applicable.
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “coonass”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “coonass”
- Using it without understanding its deeply offensive nature.
- Assuming it's acceptable because some Cajuns use it.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
For non-Cajuns, it is never acceptable as it is a recognized ethnic slur. Its use by Cajuns themselves is complex and controversial; outsiders should avoid it entirely.
'Cajun' is the standard, neutral term for a person of Acadian descent from Louisiana. 'Coonass' is a vulgar, derogatory slang term for the same group.
Some use it as a form of linguistic reclamation or in-group bonding, similar to how some groups reclaim other slurs. This does not make it a neutral or public term.
You might, but its use is fraught. Hearing it does not make it safe for an outsider to repeat. It is best treated as a word you understand but do not use.
A derogatory slang term for a Cajun person, primarily from Louisiana, USA.
Coonass is usually vulgar slang, offensive in register.
Coonass: in American English it is pronounced /ˈkuːnæs/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think 'Coon' (raccoon, sometimes used in derogatory terms) + 'Ass' (vulgar). A highly offensive term for a Cajun.
Conceptual Metaphor
ETHNIC IDENTITY IS AN ANIMAL (derogatory).
Practice
Quiz
In which context might the word 'coonass' be least offensive?