Basque

[bask]

noun

1. one of a people of unknown origin inhabiting the western Pyrenees regions in France and Spain.

2. their language, not known to be related to any other language.

3. (lowercase),  a close-fitting bodice, sometimes having an extension that covers the hips.

4. (lowercase),  the extension of this bodice or of a doublet.

adjective

1. of or relating to the Basques or their language.

Basque

¹

/ bæsk, bɑːsk /

noun

1. a member of a people of unknown origin living around the W Pyrenees in France and Spain

2. the language of this people, of no known relationship with any other language

adjective

1. relating to, denoting, or characteristic of this people or their language

basque

²

/ bɑːsk, bæsk /

noun

1. a short extension below the waist to the bodice of a woman's jacket, etc

2. a tight-fitting bodice for women

Word History and Origins

Origin of Basque¹

C19: from French, from Latin Vascō a Basque

Origin of Basque²

C19: perhaps from _Basque

Example Sentences

The professor has in mind, among other things, Mr. Sanchez’s willingness to form a coalition government with Communists and Basque and Catalan separatists.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

A lively and fluent writer, Mr. Kurlansky, the author of books on the Basques, cod, salt and other subjects, brings the Boston milieu to life with sympathy, verve and dry humor.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

For dessert, a slice of Basque cheesecake, no crust, just burnt sugar edges and silken center, served with fruit.

Read more on Salon

Though Julen Izagirre will be decked out in the colours of his beloved Athletic Club on Wednesday night, the Basque will also have a Newcastle United scarf draped around his neck.

Read more on BBC

While Premier League giants Liverpool have just two wins in their last eight games, Alonso's Madrid are on a high, transformed from last season and improving weekly under the Basque manager.

Read more on Barron's