Khmer

Part of speech: adjective, noun

Definitions

1. The ethnic group predominantly residing in Cambodia, known for its rich history and cultural traditions
2. A Southeast Asian ethnic community primarily located in Cambodia, recognized for its distinctive language and heritage
3. An ethnic group indigenous to Cambodia, notable for its traditional arts, cuisine, and historical achievements

Etymology: The English word "Khmer" is a borrowing from French, which in turn romanized the name the people use for themselves. The Khmer word "ខ្មែរ" (khmae) is the self-designation of the Cambodian people and their language, and French colonial writers rendered its sound in their own spelling conventions. English then took the French form directly, so the spelling reflects French transliteration rather than the Khmer script or a direct transcription from Khmer. The result is that the English name for the group carries a French spelling of a native word, and the "kh" opening comes from French habits of writing Southeast Asian sounds rather than from any Latin or Greek source. The word is used both as a noun for the people and as an adjective for their language, art, and culture.

Synonyms: Cambodian