Pajeet

Definition Meaning

A derogatory and offensive term used to stereotype individuals from the Indian subcontinent, particularly generalized to those from low socio-economic backgrounds or lower castes.

The term is often used as a slur and is associated with poor hygiene practices, lack of education, a strong English accent and cultural stereotypes tied to cuisine, lack of self-care, and religious practices.

Part of Speech

• noun

Usage Examples

• He called him a pajeet after he saw him use his bare hands to scoop food out of a street vendor's cart. A classic case of poor hygiene, but still no excuse to use such a slur.
• Stop calling people pajeets in the chat – it's just a dumb stereotype! Just because they don't know how to pronounce 'wrench' doesn't mean they're some street pooper.
• Quit acting like a pajeet and throwing cow dung at everyone who disagrees with you

Disambiguating Definition

The word 'pajeet' is a racial slur used online to disparage people of South Asian descent, particularly those from India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh, by perpetuating negative stereotypes about their hygiene, intelligence, and socio-economic status.

Word History

The term "Pajeet" stems from the Punjabi word "Paaji," a respectful term meaning "brother" or "elder" commonly used in Punjabi-speaking communities. The word combines "Paaji" with common Punjabi Sikh names that end in "-jeet," such as Manjeet, Sanjeet, and Diljeet.

Originally, "Paaji" was a term of respect. Still, through derogatory usage, it evolved into a racial slur aimed at stereotyping Sikhs and other South Asians, particularly those from lower socio-economic backgrounds. This offensive term perpetuates harmful stereotypes about their hygiene, intelligence, and cultural practices. The word is said to have first been used in Canada against the Canadian Sikh community.

Word Illustration

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