Nigerians

Part of speech: noun

Definitions

1. People originating from or residing in the nation located in West Africa known for its diverse cultures and languages ; individuals identifying with or descended from a country rich in ethnic variety and economic activity on the Gulf of Guinea ; members or citizens of a populous African country characterized by significant cultural heritage and national identity
2. Inhabitants or nationals of a West African state with numerous ethnic groups and a vibrant cultural mosaic ; those belonging to or descended from a nation noted for its diversity and regional influence ; persons connected by birth or citizenship to a country that spans a large population in Africa
3. Citizens or people native to a prominent African country known for its multiple linguistic traditions and historical depth ; individuals associated by origin with a well-populated West African land marked by substantial cultural pluralism ; members of a nation famous for its complex societal fabric and varied customs across different communities

Etymology: The plural "Nigerians" takes its origin from "Nigerian," which is built from the country's name, Nigeria, plus the suffix "-n." Nigeria takes its name from the Niger River, whose name is traced to the Tuareg "n'igherren." Latin "niger," meaning black, influenced how the river's name was spelled in French and then English, so a Latin word for black became part of the name. The Latin-derived suffix "-ia" turned the river's name into "Nigeria."