hottentot: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
Very Low / ArchaicHistorical, Derogatory, Offensive; Technical (in specific zoological/botanical names)
Quick answer
What does “hottentot” mean?
A dated and offensive ethnic term historically used for the Khoekhoe and Khoisan peoples of Southern Africa.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A dated and offensive ethnic term historically used for the Khoekhoe and Khoisan peoples of Southern Africa.
Used in some biological contexts (e.g., 'Hottentot fig', 'Hottentot teal') or in the obsolete phrase 'Hottentot morality' to denote perceived simplistic or primitive ethics.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No substantive difference in meaning or offensiveness. Awareness of its derogatory nature is consistent in educated circles in both regions.
Connotations
Extremely negative, racist, archaic. Connotes colonial prejudice and dehumanisation.
Frequency
Extremely rare in contemporary discourse. Slightly higher chance of encounter in older British colonial texts or in specific Latin biological names which are international.
Grammar
How to Use “hottentot” in a Sentence
Used attributively as a noun modifier (e.g., Hottentot ____)Used historically as a countable noun (now offensive)Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “hottentot” in a Sentence
adjective
British English
- The explorer's journal contained derogatory references to 'Hottentot customs'.
- The Hottentot fig is a hardy succulent.
American English
- The museum revised an exhibit that used the adjective 'Hottentot'.
- We saw a Hottentot teal at the wetlands preserve.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Never used.
Academic
Only in historical, critical, or post-colonial studies to discuss the term itself. Used in taxonomy for specific species names (e.g., Carpobrotus edulis, 'Hottentot fig').
Everyday
Should never be used; would be considered deeply offensive.
Technical
Restricted to a few established biological common names (zoology, botany).
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “hottentot”
Neutral
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “hottentot”
- Using it as a current or neutral ethnic descriptor.
- Pronouncing it without awareness of its offensive weight.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, not as a term for people. Its only non-offensive uses are in fixed biological names like 'Hottentot fig', which refer to plants/animals, not people.
For the peoples historically called Hottentot, the appropriate terms are Khoekhoe or Khoisan peoples, depending on the specific context.
It is a colonial exonym, often imposed by outsiders, that was used during periods of dispossession and discrimination. It carries the weight of racist stereotypes and dehumanisation.
Understand it as a historical artefact reflecting the prejudices of its time. In academic or discussion settings, it should be presented in quotes with explanation of its offensive nature.
A dated and offensive ethnic term historically used for the Khoekhoe and Khoisan peoples of Southern Africa.
Hottentot is usually historical, derogatory, offensive; technical (in specific zoological/botanical names) in register.
Hottentot: in British English it is pronounced /ˈhɒt.ən.tɒt/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈhɑː.t̬ən.tɑːt/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “'Hottentot morality' (obsolete, derogatory: a simplistic moral code)”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
NOT RECOMMENDED. The word itself is a mnemonic for colonial racism and should be remembered as such.
Conceptual Metaphor
N/A. The term is a metonymic insult, equating a people with perceived barbarism or simplicity.
Practice
Quiz
In which context might the word 'hottentot' appear without immediate offensive intent today?