an African river; flows into the South Atlantic
"The Niger River flows through several West African countries before emptying into the South Atlantic Ocean."
a landlocked republic in West Africa; gained independence from France in 1960; most of the country is dominated by the Sahara Desert
"The Niger, a landlocked republic in West Africa that gained independence from France in 1960 and where the Sahara Desert dominates much of the landscape."
An Ethiopian herb, Guizotia abyssinica, grown for its seed and edible oil.
"Farmers in Ethiopia plant niger to harvest seeds that are pressed into cooking oil."
In plain English: A niger is an old-fashioned word for someone from Nigeria, though it can be considered offensive today because of its colonial history and negative connotations.
"The niger rose slowly to his feet after sitting in the chair all afternoon."
Usage: Niger is an African plant cultivated specifically for its seeds, which are processed into the cooking oil known as niger seed oil or Benne. Do not confuse this botanical term with "nigger," a highly offensive racial slur that has no relation to agriculture or plants.
A country in West Africa, situated to the north of Nigeria. Official name: Republic of Niger.
"The Republic of Niger is a landlocked country located directly north of Nigeria in West Africa."
The word is likely derived from Tuareg roots meaning "river of rivers," though its modern spelling was probably influenced by the Latin word for black. This connection to Latin is considered a case of folk etymology rather than the true origin.