factually
Index/Topics/Origin and Evolution of the Term Semite

Origin and Evolution of the Term Semite

The term Semite originated as a scholarly label in the 18th century, derived from the biblical name Shem, and was later racialized and politicized in the 19th century.

Fact-Checks

1 result
Feb 1, 2026

What is the historical definition of 'Semite' and how has it changed over time?

began as an 18th‑century scholarly label, derived from the biblical name Shem, to group a family of related languages now called Semitic languages; over the 19th century it was racialized and politici...