Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
pickaninny
Noun
/ˌpɪkəˈnɪni/
Definition
A derogatory term historically used to refer to a small child, particularly of African descent.
Examples
- The old stories often depicted the pickaninny as a carefree child running around the plantation.
- Using the term ‘pickaninny’ in modern context is widely seen as inappropriate.
Meaning
The term is often considered offensive and carries connotations of racial stereotyping that can be hurtful and dehumanizing.
Synonyms
- Child
- Toddler
- Kid
