European

1 of 2

adjective

Eu·​ro·​pe·​an ˌyu̇r-ə-ˈpē-ən How to pronounce European (audio)
-ˈpēn
: of, relating to, or characteristic of Europe or its people
Europeanness noun

European

2 of 2

noun

1
: a native or inhabitant of Europe
2
: a person of European descent

Examples of European in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Adjective
Much of Black dandyism involves taking elements of European menswear and infusing them with an African diasporic sensibility, including bright colors for suits, ties, pocket squares, and hats as a form of cultural expression. Kristopher Fraser, Robb Report, 20 June 2025 Public Enemy will also be the support act for Guns n’ Roses on several of the rock band’s European tour dates this summer. Anna Chan, Billboard, 20 June 2025
Noun
Is this the year that Switzerland first reach the European Championship knockout stages? Megan Feringa, New York Times, 21 June 2025 At the same time, the European Union appears to be shelving the Green Claims Directive, retreating under political pressure precisely when markets are demanding clear, consistent regulation to guide sustainable investment. Felicia Jackson, Forbes.com, 21 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for European

Word History

First Known Use

Adjective

1555, in the meaning defined above

Noun

1578, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of European was in 1555

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Cite this Entry

“European.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/European. Accessed 25 Jun. 2025.

Kids Definition

European

1 of 2 adjective
Eu·​ro·​pe·​an ˌyu̇r-ə-ˈpē-ən How to pronounce European (audio)
: of or relating to Europe or its people

European

2 of 2 noun
1
: a person born or living in Europe
2
: a person of European ancestry
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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