Circassian

[ ser-kash-uhn, -ee-uhn ]

noun

1. a native or inhabitant of Circassia.
2. a group of North Caucasian languages, including Kabardian.
3. a literary language based on the western dialects of the Circassian group.

adjective

1. of or relating to Circassia, its inhabitants, often with respect to their legendary beauty, or their language.

Circassian

/ sɜːˈkæsɪən /

noun

1. a native of Circassia
2. a language or languages spoken in Circassia, belonging to the North-West Caucasian family See also Adygei Kabardian

adjective

1. relating to Circassia, its people, or language

Word History and Origins

Origin of Circassian¹

First recorded in 1545–55; from Medieval Latin or New Latin Circassi(a) + -an

Example Sentences

As referenced in The Cossacks by Albert Seaton, the Kuban Cossacks and their Terek brethren also wore the cherkesska, basically a Circassian-origin tunic with pockets sewn on both sides for carrying cartridges.

From Realm of History

The Kuban Cossacks were also known to carry the kinzhal, a Circassian-type dagger.

From Realm of History

My grandparents are Georgian and Circassian and other stuff, too.

From Outside Online

Communities were spilt into smaller and smaller units, while signs in villages warned against speaking Circassian in public areas.

From The Daily Beast

“This is like having the Olympics in Auschwitz,” tweeted one young Circassian activist.

From The Daily Beast

The indigent Jakut exchanges his most valuable furs and skins for a few ounces of the "Circassian weed."

From Project Gutenberg

A Circassian prisoner carried in a wounded Royal Scot on his back under a heavy fire.

From Project Gutenberg

Girls are brought to them and warranted virgins on the words of a Circassian.

From Project Gutenberg

The deputy-governor glared at the new-comers, and then dismissed the Circassian girls.

From Project Gutenberg

The man placed his finger upon his lip—a sign of implicit obedience—and the Circassian slaves were removed to prison.

From Project Gutenberg