gentilicio
demonym, gentile adjective
noun hen-tee-LEE-syoh Rare
Origin: Latin gentilicius (of one's kin/clan), from gentilis
Usage Note
Gentilicio is the grammatical term for a word that identifies the nationality, origin, or place of belonging of a person or thing — e.g., español, madrileño, cubano. It is used in grammar instruction and dictionaries. Both the adjective and noun senses are active: el gentilicio de México es 'mexicano'.
Examples
"El gentilicio de París es 'parisino'."
Natural Translation
The demonym for Paris is 'parisino'.

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