Aunt Jemima

[ ant juh-mahy-muh, ahnt ]

noun

1. Slang: Disparaging and Offensive. a Black woman considered by other Black people to be subservient to or to curry favor with white people.

Sensitive Note

The trademarked name and image of Aunt Jemima, as formerly used by the Quaker Oats Company on some of its products, was also the name of a stereotypical African American character in minstrel shows of the late 19th century. The product packaging, originally featuring a fat, smiling Black woman with a kerchief in her hair, was updated over the years to eliminate features associated with disrespectful racial stereotypes. Then, in 2021, the company replaced both the image and product name in a clean break from its controversial brand origin.

Word History and Origins

Origin of Aunt Jemima¹

First recorded in 1885–90; after the trademarked name of a brand of pancake mixes and associated products, featuring a picture of a Black female cook on the packaging

Example Sentences

Mr. Greenbank is the only person who has asked me, and Aunt Jemima says no one else ever will!

From Project Gutenberg

On the contrary, Aunt Jemima might impress on her that we count on her assistance to keep the pot boiling.

From Project Gutenberg

"We must make friends with Aunt Jemima, James," was the bride's thoughtful comment on the arrival of this present.

From Project Gutenberg

And here everything came to a halt and all the troops were sent back to the barracks—(Aunt Jemima will do for the barracks).

From Project Gutenberg

Dey wants a li'l' trimmin' roun' de aidges, but I reckon we kin make 'em do—Aunt Jemima sont 'em home dis mawnin'.

From Project Gutenberg