Chinese

UK: ˌtʃaɪˈniːz | US: ˌtʃaɪˈniːz

Definition

  1. n. 1. A person from China or of Chinese descent.

  2. n. 2. The Sinitic language family, primarily Mandarin, spoken in China.

  3. adj. Relating to China, its people, or their language.

Structure
Chin <China>ese <denoting origin or belonging>
Etymology

Chinese = Chin<China> + ese<denoting origin or belonging>

  • Chin: Derived from "China," itself originating from the Qin dynasty (221–206 BCE), the first imperial dynasty of unified China (Qin < *Old Chinese "Tsyin").
  • ese: A suffix of Latin origin (-ensis), adopted into English via Old French to indicate origin (e.g., Japanese, Portuguese).

Etymology Origin:
The term Chinese evolved from "China" + -ese, reflecting European naming conventions for nationalities. "China" traces back to the Sanskrit Cīna (चीन), likely borrowed from the Qin dynasty's name. The suffix -ese systematized in English to denote "belonging to," creating a clear linguistic link between place and identity.

Examples

  1. She studies Chinese history at university.

  2. The restaurant serves authentic Chinese cuisine.

  3. He is fluent in Chinese and English.

  4. Chinese New Year celebrations are vibrant and colorful.

  5. Many Chinese inventions, like paper, revolutionized the world.