The term refers to a specific pronunciation of the racial slur “nigger” ending with the “er” sound, rather than the “a” sound (“nigga”). The distinction, though seemingly minor, carries significant weight due to the historical context and the intent behind its usage. For example, using the term “nigger” is almost universally considered more offensive than “nigga” due to the historical association with racist oppression and violence perpetrated against Black people.
The importance of understanding this distinction lies in recognizing the deep-seated racism embedded within language. The “er” ending directly evokes the historical dehumanization of Black individuals during slavery and the Jim Crow era. Recognizing the impact of such language is crucial for fostering a more inclusive and equitable online environment. Furthermore, the intent behind the use of either term also matters, and the “er” version is overwhelmingly associated with malicious and derogatory intent.
