darky
or dark·ie
[dahr-kee]
|
noun, plural dark·ies. Older Use: Now Offensive.
a term used to refer to a black person.
Origin of darky
Usage note
The earliest uses of darky in English were sentimental, probably affectionate in intent, although it is likely that even then, those who were addressed or referred to by the term found it patronizing. For example, the lyrics of Stephen Foster's song My Old Kentucky Home (1853) refer with nostalgia to happy darkies. But by the early part of the 20th century, the term had became increasingly offensive and unacceptable. Current versions of the Foster lyrics refer instead to “people.”
Dictionary.com Unabridged
Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2019
Examples from the Web for darky
Historical Examples of darky
I drove Darky into a shed, and amused myself by looking around the premises.
Down The RiverOliver Optic
I warmed my fingers a little at the stove, and then went out to take care of Darky.
Down The RiverOliver Optic
I gave Darky some hay, and then left my sanctuary, without knowing where I was going.
Down The RiverOliver Optic
Down cellar, under the Bed, in the Darky's grip or anywhere.
Darky had written an ode to the man who founded this class of lodging-house, and had received personal thanks.
BeggarsW. H. (William Henry) Davies
darky
darkie or darkey
noun plural darkies or darkeys informal
Collins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 2012 Digital Edition
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Online Etymology Dictionary, © 2010 Douglas Harper