Levantine

[ lev-uhn-tahyn, -teen, li-van-tin, -tahyn ]

adjective

1. of or relating to the Levant.

noun

1. Sometimes Offensive. a native of the Levant.

levantine

/ ˈlɛvənˌtaɪn /

noun

1. a cloth of twilled silk

Sensitive Note

The use of the word Levantine as a noun, as in the head of HR is a Levantine or Levantines are a key demographic, may sometimes be offensive when not used in self-reference.

Other Word Forms

• Lev·an·tin·ism noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of Levantine¹

First recorded in 1640–50; Levant + -ine ¹

Example Sentences

Prior to its excavation and analysis, there was scant evidence for human habitation along the southern Levantine coast during the 8.2ka event.

From Science Daily

Make your next weekend brunch memorable with these picks from the 101 Best Restaurants guide, including a Levantine option in Long Beach, soul food in Mid-City, modern Mexican in the Arts District and more.

From Los Angeles Times

Growing up in northern England, Hankir found it challenging to fit in as a young Muslim girl with Levantine and Egyptian heritage.

From Salon

Gezer is an ancient southern Levantine city, well known from Egyptian, Assyrian, and Biblical texts and associated with stories of power struggles and significant historical figures.

From Science Daily

Circassians arrived as slaves, Levantine Arabs and Western Europeans as businesspeople.

From New York Times

Quiz

Q: Fill in the blank: "Salchipapas" is a portmanteau of the Spanish words for ______ and ______.

• salt and potatoes
• sausage and French fries
• sardines and French fries

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