Etymology
The word "pygmy" derives from the Ancient Greek word "πυγμαῖος" (pygmaios), which means "the size of a fist." This term was used by the ancient Greeks to describe a mythical race of dwarf-like creatures that were said to live in the far north of Africa.
Meaning
The modern English word "pygmy" has two primary meanings:
Origin
The ancient Greeks believed that pygmies lived in a region known as "Pygmy Country," which was said to be located at the southern edge of the known world, possibly in present-day Chad or Sudan. These mythical pygmies were often portrayed as being warlike and aggressive, despite their small size.
During the 16th and 17th centuries, European explorers began to encounter actual short-statured people in Africa. These people were initially referred to as "pygmies" due to their resemblance to the mythical creatures described in Greek mythology.
Over time, the term "pygmy" has come to be used more broadly to refer to short-statured people and organisms around the world. However, it is important to note that this term is considered offensive by some groups, and alternative terms such as "short-statured" or "person of short stature" are often preferred.
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Etymology The word pygmy derives from the Ancient Greek word πυγμαῖος pygma
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