Jap

¹ American  

[jap] / dʒæp /

adjective

Slang: Extremely Disparaging and Offensive.

1. a contemptuous term used to refer to a Japanese person.

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JAP ² American  

[jap] / dʒæp /

noun

Slang: Usually Disparaging and Offensive.

1. a term used to refer to a pampered young Jewish-American woman, especially one who takes material advantages for granted.

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Jap. ³ American  

abbreviation

1. Japan.

2. Japanese.

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JAP ¹ British  

abbreviation

1. slang Jewish American Princess

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Jap ² British  

/ dʒæp /

noun

1. informal short for Japanese

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Jap. ³ British  

abbreviation

1. Japan(ese)

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Sensitive Note

Dating back to the late 19th century, use of this term was originally neutral. But because the Japanese were the enemy during World War II, the term Jap became derogatory.

JAP is a term of mild contempt, used (most often by Jewish people themselves) to refer to a young Jewish woman who is spoiled or indulged. In its reference to a certain stereotype, the word has antisemitic and sexist overtones.

Etymology

Origin of Jap¹

First recorded in 1885–90; shortened form

Origin of JAP²

First recorded in 1965–70; abbreviation of J(ewish) A(merican) P(rincess)

Example Sentences

“Even the best of partnerships, and especially long-term partnerships, are not without friction,” Jap says.

From Seattle Times

“That way, you have people who are dedicated and who are working on making this partnership work,” Jap says.

From Seattle Times

Tokyo announced that Jap labor battalions were beaverishly building new air strips in the Kuril Islands, a road which would "figuratively speaking, lead to the attack on America."

From Time Magazine Archive

Russian and Chinese looters, after the Jap surrender, had sometimes taken away even the roofs.

From Time Magazine Archive

During the Japanese occupation of the Philippines, Roxas had many intimate friends among the Japanese, including General Wachi, former "Director General" of the Jap administration in the Philippines.

From Time Magazine Archive