Belgian
UK[ˈbɛldʒən]US[ˈbɛldʒən]
adj
Relating to Belgium or its people.
n
A native or inhabitant of Belgium.
Etymology
The word "Belgian" originates from the Latin Belgium, the Roman name for the territory inhabited by the Belgae, a group of Celtic and Germanic tribes. The name Belgae is likely of Celtic origin, possibly meaning "the swelling (or angry) ones," from a Proto-Celtic root belg- or bolg- meaning "to swell with anger." The English suffix "-an," derived from Latin -anus, was attached to "Belgium" to form the adjective and demonym, following a common pattern for forming words denoting origin or association. Thus, "Belgian" literally means "of or pertaining to the land of the Belgae."
Analysis
The word is a simplex proper noun derivative. It is formed from the toponym "Belgium" (from Latin Belgium) with the addition of the English adjectival/nominal suffix "-an" (meaning "of or pertaining to").
Examples
Belgian chocolate is renowned worldwide for its high quality.
The Belgian team performed exceptionally well in the tournament.
She is a Belgian who has lived in Canada for over a decade.