Wetback Meaning in English

word

US

wɛtbæk

WET-bak

UK

wˈɛtbæk

WET-bak

Definition

A highly offensive and derogatory slang term used in the US to refer to Mexican immigrants, especially those who cross the border illegally. It is considered a racial slur and should never be used.

Usage & Nuances

Extremely offensive, racist, and outdated term. Its use is considered hate speech and can lead to severe social and legal consequences. Only refer to the word in a historical or academic context for explanation, never in conversation.

• Spanish: espalda mojada (ofensivo) - indocumentado (ofensivo)
• Portuguese (BR): wetback (ofensivo) - imigrante ilegal (ofensivo)
• Portuguese (PT): wetback (ofensivo) - imigrante ilegal (ofensivo)
• Chinese (Simplified): 湿背 (冒犯性) - 非法移民 (贬义)
• Chinese (Traditional): 濕背 (冒犯性) - 非法移民 (貶義)
• Hindi: वेटबैक (अपमानजनक) - अवैध प्रवासी (अपमानजनक)
• Arabic: ويتباك (مهين) - مهاجر غير شرعي (مهين)
• Bengali: ওয়েটব্যাক (অত্যন্ত অপমানজনক শব্দ)
• Russian: вэтбэк (крайне оскорбительное слово)
• Japanese: ウェットバック（非常に侮蔑的な言葉）
• Vietnamese: wetback (từ lóng cực kỳ xúc phạm)
• Korean: 웻백 (매우 모욕적인 용어)
• Turkish: wetback (son derece aşağılayıcı bir terim)
• Urdu: ویٹ بیک (انتہائی توہین آمیز لفظ)
• Indonesian: wetback (istilah yang sangat menghina)

Example Sentences

He heard the word wetback in a book about history.

basic

The teacher explained that wetback is an offensive word.

basic

Do not use the term wetback; it is very disrespectful.

basic

People in the past sometimes used wetback without understanding how hurtful it is.

natural

Using wetback can get you into serious trouble at work or school.

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If you see the word wetback in old movies or books, remember it is not okay to use now.

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