oriental

The term "Oriental" derives from the Latin orientalis, meaning "eastern" or "of the rising sun," and was historically used as the antonym to "Occidental" (Western). For centuries, it served as a broad geographic and cultural designator used by Europeans and North Americans to describe the lands, peoples, and goods of Asia—encompassing regions from the Middle East to East Asia.

Today, the acceptability of the term depends heavily on context and geography. In the United States, referring to a person as "Oriental" is widely considered outdated and offensive; it is associated with colonial-era stereotypes, exoticism, and the concept of "Othering," leading to its removal from U.S. federal laws in 2016. However, the term remains standard usage when describing inanimate objects (e.g., rugs, botany, or fragrances). In British English, the term historically carried less stigma and was used to distinguish people of East Asian descent from those of South Asian descent (who are often referred to as "Asian" in the UK), though usage there is also shifting toward more specific geographic terms.

Example:
"The antique shop specializes in restoring genuine Oriental rugs from the 19th century."

Example:
"While the census previously used the term, most style guides now advise against referring to people as Oriental, preferring terms like Asian American."