Untermensch

English

Etymology

From German Untermensch, from unter (under, below) + Mensch (person, human).

Pronunciation

  • (UK) IPA(key): /ˈʉntəmɛnʃ/

Noun

Untermensch (plural Untermenschen)

  1. (derogatory) An inferior person; a subhuman.
    • 2009, John Sadler, Glencoe, Amberley 2009, p. 19:
      His orders are clear and concise – the Scots are viewed as untermenschen and are to be treated accordingly.

Usage notes

  • Since the races whom the Nazis persecuted were often collectively referred to as Untermenschen, this term is strongly associated with Nazi ideology.

Antonyms


German

Etymology

From unter- (under) + Mensch (human being).

Pronunciation

  • IPA(key): [ˈʊntɐˌmɛnʃ]
  • (file)

Noun

Untermensch m (genitive Untermenschen, plural Untermenschen)

  1. (derogatory) An inferior person; a subhuman.

Usage notes

  • As the races whom the Nazis persecuted were often collectively referred to as Untermenschen, this term is consequently strongly associated with the Nazis and their ideology.

Antonyms

Further reading

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