WordGarden.iooriental
C1Pronunciation
UK
- /ˌɔːrɪˈɛntəl/
US
- /ˌɔriˈɛnəl/
Meanings
Adjective
relating to East Asia or to cultures, goods, or styles associated with it; a dated label, especially inappropriate for people, though still found in some established phrases for objects, styles, or products
Noun
an East Asian person, used as a dated and offensive label
Beyond the definition
The word "Oriental" was once commonly used in English for people, cultures, and things linked to Asia, especially East Asia, but sometimes other parts of Asia as well. It often brought to mind silks, spices, and old images of the East. Today, though, the word is widely seen as problematic. It comes from a Europe-centered way of describing the world, where places were named by their position east of Europe. Because of that history, it can sound broad, old-fashioned, and disrespectful.
You may still see it in older writing or in names for some goods, such as "Oriental rugs." But it is usually best to avoid it for people. Instead, use more exact words like "East Asian," "Chinese," "Japanese," or "Korean." The word is a good example of how language changes and how older terms can carry difficult history.
"Oriental" has a long and complex history. Originally, it was a geographical term used by Europeans for lands to the east of Europe. Depending on the time and context, it could refer to East Asia, South Asia, the Middle East, or even Asia more broadly. For centuries, the term was not always meant as an insult. In phrases tied to trade, travel, art, or design, it often suggested mystery, luxury, or something foreign and distant.
However, over time, the term became deeply tied to Western colonialism and unequal power. The "Orient" was often described by Western writers as mysterious, passive, and very different from the "West." This helped create harmful stereotypes and a strong sense of "otherness." Scholars have since pointed out that the term "Oriental" defines Asian places and peoples only in relation to Europe, instead of on their own terms. It also suggests one single culture, even though Asia contains many very different nations, languages, and traditions.
Today, many people consider "Oriental" outdated and offensive when it is used for people. It still appears in set terms such as "Orientalism" or in some names for objects, patterns, or foods, but even there it can sound dated. Because of its history, it is important to use it with care and to know that many listeners may react negatively to it.
In most modern English, the better choice is more precise and respectful language: "East Asian," "South Asian," "Middle Eastern," or a specific nationality such as "Vietnamese" or "Thai." These terms are clearer and avoid grouping many different people under one broad, historically loaded label. The change shows how English keeps adapting as people become more aware of history, identity, and respect.
Examples
- 1
Rugs
She bought a small oriental rug for the hallway.
- 2
Antiques
The antique shop had shelves of oriental porcelain and silk fans.
- 3
Restaurant wording
The restaurant's old sign said "Oriental food," but the menu now uses "Asian food."
- Caution
"oriental" can sound old-fashioned or offensive when used for people; "Asian" is usually safer
- 4
Academic title
He took a course in Oriental Studies at university.
- Usage
Oriental Studies is an older academic name that still appears in some course or department titles
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Museum labels
The museum label called the screen "oriental," but the guide explained that it was Japanese.
See also
Forms and spellings
2 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- orientalnounadjective
Forms
- orientalspluralnounadjective