Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

quadroon

Noun
kwə-ˈdruːn
Definition
A person of mixed European and African descent, specifically one-quarter African ancestry.
Examples
  • The term quadroon was often used in the 19th century to describe individuals in certain societies.
  • Many quadroon individuals faced unique social challenges due to their mixed heritage.
  • In literature, characters identified as quadroons often navigated complex racial and social dynamics.
Meaning
Historically, the term quadroon has been used to describe someone who has one grandparent of African descent, indicating a racial classification in the context of mixed heritage.
Synonyms
  • Mixed-race individual
  • Mulatto (historical)
  • Biracial (general)