racial

UK: ˈreɪʃ(ə)l | US: ˈreɪʃ(ə)l

Definition

  1. adj. relating to race or a group of people sharing common physical or genetic traits

  2. adj. arising from or based on differences between racial groups

Structure
rac <race>ial <adjective suffix>rac <race>ial <adjective suffix>
Etymology

The word racial emerged in the early 19th century, combining race (a term solidified in English by the 16th century to classify human groups) with the adjectival suffix -ial. Its development reflects scientific and social attempts to categorize human differences, though modern usage often critiques its biological determinism.

Examples

  1. The study examines racial disparities in healthcare access.

  2. Racial diversity enriches cultural perspectives.

  3. Laws prohibiting racial discrimination were enacted in the 20th century.

  4. Her research focuses on racial identity formation.

  5. The community celebrated its racial and ethnic heritage.