Definition

A person who has parents from different racial backgrounds, particularly someone with both European and Native American heritage.

Example

In many Latin American countries, mestizos make up a significant portion of the population.

Conversation

I met someone who identifies as a mestizo at the festival yesterday.

That's interesting! What was their story?

They shared how their background influences their art.

I love how diverse cultures can inspire creativity!

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Mestizo → The word originates from Spanish 'mestizo', which means mixed or of mixed descent, specifically referring to a person of mixed European and Indigenous American ancestry. The term derives from the Latin 'mixtus', meaning mixed.

Memory Tip

Think of the Spanish word for mixed ('mestizo') to remember that it refers to someone of mixed heritage, particularly European and Indigenous American.

Visually Confused Words