What Are People From Senegal Called?

West Africa, Senegal

The demonym for people from Senegal is:

Senegalese

Pronunciation:

/ˌsɛnɪɡəˈliːz/

Ends in -ese — see how this suffix works

Senegal fans Russia 2018
Image via Wikimedia CommonsCC BY-SA 3.0

About Senegal

Senegal is a West African nation on the Atlantic coast, with its capital city of Dakar sitting on the tip of the Cap-Vert peninsula. Dakar is a vibrant city that serves as the country's political, cultural, and economic hub. Senegal is known for its rich musical heritage, and it has been home to world-renowned artists who helped popularize mbalax, a dynamic style that blends traditional rhythms with modern instruments. The nation is regarded as a stable democracy, and its strong cultural traditions are reflected in its art, literature, and cuisine. Peanut farming has long been an important part of rural life and the economy. The island of Gorée, just off the coast of Dakar, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that serves as a powerful memorial to the Atlantic slave trade. French is the official language, and Wolof is widely spoken as a lingua franca. Visitors will find Senegal welcoming, colorful, and full of musical energy.

Quick Facts about Senegal
Population:
18,384,660 (2024 est.)
Country:
Senegal
Region:
West Africa

Recommended Geography Resources

Want to explore where Senegaleses live? Here's the atlas that does it best:

National Geographic Atlas of the World

Highly detailed, stunning visuals

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Etymology of the Senegal Demonym

From the Wolof phrase 'Sunuu Gaal' meaning 'our boat', or from the Zenaga Berber 'Azenegue' meaning 'black'.

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