andiné

Andiné is a proposed demonym and adjective intended to refer to the Andean region and its inhabitants, cultures, and linguistic groups without aligning to any single national label. The term is not widely standardized and appears mainly in niche scholarly writings, experimental linguistics, and some regional ethnographic work seeking a pan-Andean terminology.

Etymology and status: The word is formed from the geographic name Andes with a suffix pattern used in several languages to create demonyms. It lacks broad attestation in major dictionaries and has no official orthography or capitalization. Its acceptance varies by author and publication, and it remains a debated term within linguistic and anthropological contexts.

Usage and discussion: When used, andiné can function as a noun (an andiné) or as an adjective (andiné cultures, andiné languages). However, there is no consensus on its grammatical gender, pluralization, or stylistic guidelines. In practice, more established labels such as Andean, andino/andina, or related ethnonyms are typically preferred in non-specialist writing. Proponents argue that andiné offers a neutral, inclusive option that avoids national or ethnic identifiers; critics point to inconsistency and lack of standardization, and warn that it may obscure regional diversity rather than highlight it.

See also: Andes; Andean civilizations; Andean languages; ethnonyms of the Andes.